Tony Hadley has paid tribute to a ‘dear friend’ on Instagram (Image: Getty)

Tony Hadley has issued an emotional statement on social media, saying he lost one of his “dear friends.” Taking to Instagram, the Spandau Ballet star posed alongside John Glover, a music manager. Glover was a founding member of the Music Managers Forum and served as a board member and chair over two periods between 1995 and 2004. He recently d!ed at the age of 81. Tony paid tribute to him in a heartbreaking tribute, saying: “Last Tuesday we lost one of the legends of the music business, John Glover. John was my dear friend and my confidant for many years, as well as being my manager and the man who stood by me through thick and thin. I’m going to miss you, mate… love you, Tone xx.”

Many of his followers flooded the comments section with words of support. One fan wrote: “Sorry to hear this sad news Tony. My thoughts are with you all.”

A second person also commented online: “Great photograph of you Tony and a lovely man God bless John. x.” A third follower also typed: “My sincere condolences. The world has lost a great and friendly and a man with a great sense of humour.”

A fourth also echoed: “So sorry for your loss Tony, a tough one to take after a long and wonderful friendship.”

During his career as a manager, John also worked with Free, Mott The Hoople, Jim Capaldi, and Paul Kossoff. His company, Blueprint Management, is now overseen by his son Matt. It went on to represent the likes of Go West, ABC, Alison Limerick, and Tony Hadley.

Get the breaking showbiz news first, sent straight to your phoneJoin us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Music Managers Forum paid tribute to John, saying: “John was widely recognised within the management community for his advocacy – both for artists and other managers – and, alongside Alan McGee, was instrumental in helping develop the Labour government’s New Deal for Musicians, which enabled unemployed artists aged 18-24 to opt out of Welfare to Work schemes and access instruments and studio time.”

Paul Craig, MMF chair, also remarked: “That’s immensely sad about John. Lovely man, legendary manager and supported the best football team. Condolences to his family.”

Glover established the British Music Roll of Honour in 1995 under his chairmanship.