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Build Me Up Buttercup singer Clem Curtis dies aged 76

clem curtis
Emmy Griffiths
TV & Film Editor
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Clem Curtis, who was best known as the lead singer of the Sixties soul group The Foundations, has sadly passed away aged 76 after a battle with cancer. Friends and fans of the singer, who sang the smash hit classic Build Me Up Buttercup, took to social media to pay tribute to him.

clem curtis© Photo: PA

Clem was the lead singer of The Foundations

One fan wrote: "Such tragic news R.I.P Clem Curtis lead singer of The Foundations (Why do you build me up Buttercup) I will miss you buddy fly high :( xx." Another added: "RIP Clem Curtis never forget your smile, laughter and that magical voice. Absolute pleasure to have known you mate #foundations #legend." Others were quick to share stories about him, with one writing: "Sad that Clem Curtis has passed away. One of the best live bookings I made - even though he insisted that he knew my mum from down the pub?!"

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Just two days before his death, the Buckinghamshire-born star joined BBC Three Counties Radio's Justin Dealey to speak about his illness. He said: "Well I got lots of messages from people wishing me well. I tried to keep it under wraps but I couldn't." Justin told him he is a legend and when Clem replied: "No, I'm not a legend", he continued: "You are. Your music still sounds amazing and it's still on the radio. That must mean so much to you." Clem replied: "We came along at a time when music was going downhill. We made music that made people happy and they enjoyed it… You give a little and take a lot. I've enjoyed every moment. It's a great dream."

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