Edinburgh, UK – Edinburgh is reeling from the loss of a musical gem, Andrew Laidlaw, affectionately known as Andy Laidlaw, from the well-known Big Fat Panda Band. Andy passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023, surrounded by his beloved family. The news was shared with a heavy heart by the Big Fat Panda Band on their Facebook page, leaving the music community and fans in mourning.
Big Fat Panda announced Andy Laidlaw’s death news by stating:
It is with broken hearts we must announce the loss of our Andy Laidlaw.Andy passed away peacefully early this morning in the Edinburgh Royal. We understand how hard this news is to take, and it is a testament to his kind, caring, loving character just how many lives Andy touched.The time for words and a celebration of Andy’s life will come, but for now, we as a band, and Andy’s family, ask for privacy from questions. We also ask that you keep his daughters in your thoughts.Andy was the best of us, and his passing takes a piece of us all with him.With love,Andy’s Pandas ❤️🐼
Andy Laidlaw, a longtime resident of Edinburgh, United Kingdom, was a unique figure in the music world, showcasing a deep and complex persona through his work. Despite his introverted nature and aversion to the limelight, his music deeply resonated with many, reflecting the depth of emotions in his melodies and lyrics. Educated at Lasswade High School Centre and later pursuing studies at Ska Uni, his academic background likely contributed to the intellectual and artistic richness evident in his music.
He embodied boundless kindness, consistently radiating positivity to everyone around him and embracing life’s sunny perspective even in the face of adversities. Andy’s vibrant spirit and musical talent left an indelible mark, inspiring all the musical ensembles fortunate enough to share the stage with him.
His ability to draw inspiration from everyday experiences and elevate them to the realm of art showcased his acute awareness and inquisitive character. Despite his musical success and a passionate fan base, Laidlaw remained an enigmatic figure. What set him apart was his genuine and modest approach to his music career. His unwillingness to conform to industry norms only strengthened his connection with his fans, who valued his dedication to his craft above all else.
Bad Manners shared,
The world has lost an incredible human today!Big Fat Panda front man Andy Laidlaw has sadly passed away!! All of our thoughts are with the family, the big fat panda family and all of his friends and fans from all over! Rest In Peace Andy !!!!
PorkPie share sorrow by saying,
So so saddened to hear of the passing of Andy Laidlaw , lead singer of the legendary Big Fat Panda …. never a nicer man you would ever meet and a true ska man ! Our thoughts are with his family and the Pandas today xx
Neil Roche-Kelly pour tribute by saying,
Devastating news came last night, that I’ve been dreading to receive for a while now.Andrew LaidlawRest easy ‘little Andy’! We went from fb friends to real friends within minutes of meeting you, such is the generous warmth of your personality. ‘Big Neil and Little Andy – instant nicknames from our obvious height differences!2018 – Scottish legends Big Fat Panda needed a sub keys player for their SpecialOzd performance in Sydney! Sally chose me, I said ‘heck yes’ and with my ska brother Marty the ‘big fat koala’ sub section of the pandas was born. I knew i’d found a brother from another mother from that day, and when the Funaddicts toured UK that same year, we got tp hang out again, at the ‘big one’ festival’ and then in your hometown of edinburgh, where we exchanged guest appearances with our respective bands. I also got to meet your family including your precious Mhari who i saw play a solo set at TBO – another thing we bonded over – many discussions about a dad’s highlight – the chance to perform with our talented musician daughters.Last Friday night while performing with my band Fiesta Fiasco ( who you supported every time we posted something) I chose to wear my BFP shirt in support for your plight and an attempt to send positive vibes your way.I won’t tag anyone personally so they can read this when they want to, but big love and know you have been constants in my thoughts and will continue to do so – Mike, Alex W, Alex R, Andy D and all Pandas. To Mhari- i’m crying now thinking of the enormous love and pride he has for you, every time he spoke about you. Please know you have eternal support from surrogate ‘panda dads’ like me all around the world whenever you need it.I’m 3 weeks away from hitting the road with your favourite band in the world – Bad Manners. Know that every performance I do with them will be for you mate.All my love – big Neil. ❤️❤️🙏🙏😢😢😢🎶🎶🎶
One of the most striking features of Andrew Laidlaw was his undying love and commitment to his work. Despite his remarkable talents and the numerous accolades he received, he maintained an astonishingly friendly and modest demeanor. His legacy lives on through the melodies he crafted and the inspiration he brought to the world of music. Edinburgh and the music industry have lost a true maestro, but his music will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.
