Billy Bryans, Parachute Club Founding Member, Dead at 63 From Cancer

Billy Bryans, a Juno Award-winning musician, founder of '80s pop group Parachute Club and acclaimed producer, died this morning in Toronto from cancer. He was 63.

According to a press release issued on behalf of his extended family, Bryans founded the Canadian pop band and co-wrote their signature song "Rise Up" while also performing in several other groups such as new wave outfit the Government and Hamilton group the Bop Cats.

Born in Montreal, the musician was a member of '60s beat group MG & the Escorts but also was quite adept in a producer's capacity, co-producing the Downchild Blues Band song "Flip, Flop and Fly" and spent time working at Daniel Lanois' Grant Avenue Studios in Hamilton.

He would also make inroads into the world music scene by producing albums for groups like Punjabi by Nature, Shego Band and Afronubians. Bryans also was integral to the Juno Awards creating an award for the genre.

Last week a benefit concert was held at Toronto's Lula Lounge for Bryans with performances by Alex Cuba, Son Ache, Samba Squad and Jane Bunnett.

"Oh my God, I just received the word that Billy Bryans passed away about 30 minutes ago," Cuba wrote on Facebook. "RIP Billy, you will be forever missed."

Details regarding funeral arrangements are to be announced.