John Gosling

John "The Baptist" Gosling (6 February 1948 – 4 August 2023) was a British keyboardist, pianist and vocalist, best known for being a member of the rock band the Kinks from 1970 to 1978, and was later a member of the Kast Off Kinks, a spin-off band composed of former members.

Early life and education John Gosling was born in Paignton, Devon, on 6 February 1948. As a child his first musical instrument was a harmonium, which he received as a Christmas present. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music, and was appointed organist of St Andrew's Church in Stoke Newington. He also attended Luton Sixth Form College.

Career Gosling's first band, the Challengers, was formed after he and a friend heard the Kinks performing "Long Tall Sally" on the BBC radio show Saturday Club. He also played in a local band called Hard Rain, a Bob Dylan–inspired group that he formed at the Royal Academy of Music. John played the baby grand piano on the song. His first performance with them was in Minneapolis, USA, on 22 May 1970. He was called "The Baptist" because of his likeness to popular images of John the Baptist.

Personal life and death Gosling opened a music shop in Berkhamsted, then became a music teacher.

John Gosling died on 4 August 2023, at the age of 75.