ATKINSON, N.H. -- Brad Delp, the lead singer of the 1970s band Boston, died Friday at his home in Atkinson.

Police are calling Delp's death "untimely," but they said there was no indication of foul play or involvement from drugs or alcohol. Investigators said he was apparently alone at the time of his death.

"Everything seemed to be normal," said Atkinston Police Chief Philip Consentino. "There was nothing disrupted in the house. He was a fairly healthy person from what we're able to ascertain."

Delp's fiancee arrived at his home after 1 p.m. and immediately called for help when she found Delp's body.

Delp sang vocals on Boston's 1976 hits "More than a Feeling" and "Longtime." He also sang on Boston's most recent album, "Corporate America," released in 2002.

The 55-year-old had lived in New Hampshire for decades, according to neighbors.

They said that he was always kind and willing to help anyone who needed it. Delp currently played in a tribute band to the Beatles called Beatlejuice.

The group had a show scheduled on Friday night at a bar in Somerville, Mass. The billboard out front read, "Rest in Peace Brad Delp. We will miss you."

Delp's close friend and the band's promoter, Jim Roach, said that Beatlejuice had just played a show last Saturday night at Keene High School.

He said Delp had big plans on the horizon, including a Boston reunion tour.

"He was getting married this summer in a private ceremony followed by a party with his friends. I think half the state of New Hampshire would have been invited. And Boston was going on tour, in rehearsals now," said Roach.

Roach said that Delp loved living in New Hampshire and cared deeply about the fans. He was known for staying after every show to talk to people and sign every autograph.

Delp also devoted himself to charity events in the region, including one in November at the Black Brimmer that benefited the fund for the family of fallen Manchester police Officer Michael Briggs.

Delp actually called the bar after hearing about it and volunteered to help.

"I'm just glad at the time he was able to help us in our time of need, and I'm sorry for his family," said Damien Gagnon of the Black Brimmer.

Fans of Delp and Boston were devastated to learn about his death.

"I've seen Boston three or four times. I just can't believe it. I'm shocked," said Dan Thibedeau of Nashua.

"It's so inspirational to see someone from Boston. He's such a nice guy, and it's such a tragic loss. It really is," said musician Jim Magoon.

Police said toxicology tests needed to be conducted to help pinpoint the cause of death. It could be a week before those results are released. blog comments powered by Disqus