In memory of Ragne Wahlquist of Heavy Load
Photo by Manfred Thanner. Graphics by Turborock Productions.
From the TurboBoss, with a heavy heart:
I’m absolutely devastated. Ragne Wahlquist, not only the guitarist and vocalist of Heavy Load, but a dear friend and the godfather of Swedish Heavy Metal, has suddenly left us.
In the autumn of 2023, Turborock was asked to create and produce merchandise for Heavy Load. The band has been one of my favorite bands for years, so I was of course honored to be requested. Since then, me and Ragne had a lot of contact and he was so excited and filled with ideas for the band and its future. Not only with merchandise, but for the continued work with Heavy Load, with gigs and perhaps a fanclub. He was just as keen to view everything from my perspective and listen to my thoughts and suggestions. He usually always ended our conversations with: ”Thank you for being here, and for being you.”
When we met at the end of September 2024, I never thought it would be our last meeting. Just as always, he was happy, in great condition, funny and inspiring. That weekend, I had the pleasure to enjoy lunch, dinner and a lot of laughter and lovely conversations with Ragne and Styrbjörn Wahlquist. We were talking about upcoming shows for Heavy Load, and I recommended different places in Gothenburg which could be possible venues for a Swedish tour. The brothers visited some of them during their stay. The dream of Heavy Load playing clubs was getting closer to reality. But now, reality is without you, Ragne.
I can’t really think of any more humble or kind-hearted person stepping into my life, just like that. Ragne’s words about me were always beyond most compliments I’ve ever received, so overwhelming. I can’t believe he is gone. Ragne, you will never be forgotten. Your kind, poetic words will echo within me forever, just like the art you’ve created – the music of Heavy Load and your authorship with the Wahlgaard Saga. You were so full of life and joy, dedication and power of action. A perfectionist who mastered the making of music in the most uncompromising way and see what you’ve achieved: Some of the best and most epic music ever. A pioneer who had so much more to give.
From what I’ve learned from Ragne, he surrounded himself with love and passion, had a clear vision, will and goal. Always following his dreams. With his warm heart, he embraced each and every fan of Heavy Load with kindness and gratitude. We all salute you. I feel relieved that the band made a comeback so Ragne, and the rest of the band, got to experience Heavy Load’s greatness and the grandiose appreciation from fans all around the world. I know it meant everything for Ragne, and he treated them all like close friends. I’m also extremely grateful for having experienced the band live four times.
Thanks for wishing me all the best in life (his last message to me on New Years Eve).
Thanks for letting me work with you, one of my favorite bands of all time.
Thanks for becoming my friend and getting to know you as the beautiful person you were.
Thanks for the music history you’ve created; like singing swords it will resound forever.
Great hall awaits a fallen brother.
Rest In Power, Ragne.
We’ll meet again in Valhalla.
In memory of Ragne Wahlquist
January 23rd 1955 – January 2nd 2025
Posted on January 12, 2025.
