Rod Argent, founding member and keyboardist of The Zombies, returned to live performance earlier this week at St Albans Cathedral as part of the band’s Begin Here Festival. The 81-year-old musician had not performed publicly since suffering a stroke in July 2024, an absence spanning two and a half years.
Argent joined bandmate Colin Blunstone on stage and described experiencing significant emotion during the performance. He noted feeling nervous beforehand but was moved by the audience’s response, including standing ovations following each song. “I felt people were all trying to make me feel at home in the best possible way, and then after each song they all stood up and cheered… It was very emotional,” Argent stated. Blunstone echoed these sentiments, characterizing the crowd as supportive and noting the emotional resonance of Argent’s return. “It was very moving,” the singer remarked.
Argent revealed that he initially believed he had experienced a transient ischaemic attack before medical testing confirmed the diagnosis as a stroke. He discussed ongoing challenges with his speech, explaining that while his cognitive processes remain intact, he sometimes loses his train of thought while speaking. He indicated the situation is gradually improving.
Regarding his future plans, Argent stated he does not intend to tour again. He emphasized his desire to spend more time with his wife, crediting her with providing essential support during his recovery despite her own health concerns. The Zombies, originally formed in Hertfordshire in 1962, had resumed activity in 2004 before Argent’s stroke led to a hiatus in band performances.
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