Greg Brown, Founding Cake Guitarist and 'The Distance' Writer, Dies

Greg Brown, the founding guitarist of the alternative rock band Cake, has died. Brown was the sole writer of the band's hit song "The Distance."

Cake announced Brown's passing on social media, stating it occurred after a brief illness. Details regarding Brown's age and specific date of death were not disclosed. The band acknowledged Brown as an integral part of Cake's early sound and development, highlighting his creative contributions.

Brown was the sole writer of the band's hit song "The Distance."

Musical Contributions

Formed in Sacramento, California, in 1991, Cake included Brown on guitar alongside singer John McCrea and multi-instrumentalist Vince DiFiore. Brown co-wrote songs on the band's initial two albums, Motorcade of Generosity (1994) and Fashion Nugget (1996). He was credited as the sole writer for the 1996 single "The Distance."

Brown indicated in a 2021 interview that while he appreciated "The Distance," he initially believed "Frank Sinatra" from Fashion Nugget was a stronger choice for a single. The record label ultimately selected "The Distance," which became a successful track.

Post-Cake Projects and Reunion

Following the Fashion Nugget tour, Brown departed from Cake. He cited personal health considerations as the reason for his departure. He subsequently engaged in other musical endeavors, including forming his band Deathray with former Cake bassist Victor Damiani. Brown also contributed to Homie, a side project of Rivers Cuomo, appearing on the song "American Girls" from the 1998 Meet the Deedles soundtrack.

After releasing two albums with Deathray in the early 2000s, Brown rejoined Cake to play guitar on "Bound Away" for their 2011 album, Showroom of Compassion.