We're saddened to share the news that David Ferguson, founder member
of Random Hold and former Chairman of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) has passed away.
Mr. Ferguson, who described the music of Random Hold as "the sort of songs high-rise towers might sing were microphones to be waved in
front of them" most recently devoted his energies to composing music for film and television and helping to ensure the rights and
fair treatment of composers throughout Europe.
Passion, determination and grit were the hallmarks of his term as Chairman of BASCA from 2002 to 2008. He put BASCA
on the political map and welded the writing community into a unified body.
David was awarded BASCA's highest honour, the Fellowship, at the IVORs in May - his name is
recorded in the history books and will remain in all our memories for a long time to come.
Ferguson died on July 5 and Sarah Rodgers, who took over Ferguson's role earlier this year when illness made it
impossible for him to continue, paid tribute to the musician and skilled lobbyist. She says, "Passion, determination
and grit were the hallmarks of his term as chairman of Basca. He put Basca on the political map and welded the writing
community into a unified body."
As chairman of Basca between 2002-08, Ferguson created the European Composer and Songwriter
Alliance and also launched Academy Recordings for Basca members to release material.
Rodgers adds, "Today, because of David, composers and songwriters have a far better understanding
of the challenges and threats we all face in a highly competitive environment. Within the profession and
throughout our industry, David was known to all and a friend to many."
BASCA also has a tribute page for those who wish to pay their respects.
