Mark E. Smith, founder and singer of the Post-Punk band The Fall, has died on Wednesday at the age of 60. Known as a prolific musician, Smith released 32 studio albums with The Fall and was the only constant of the band formed in 1976.
“It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E. Smith,” said the band’s manager Pam Vander in a statement. “He passed this morning at home. A more detailed statement will follow in the next few days. In the meantime, Pam & Mark’s family request privacy at this sad time.”
Mark E. Smith formed The Fall after attending a Sex Pistols gig. He served as the band’s primary lyricist and was recognizable for his “grim, dark and ironic humor”. Although the band never managed to find a commercial success, it gained a cult following over the years influencing bands like Pavement, Happy Mondays, Sonic Youth, and the Pixies.
Over the years, The Fall went through numerous stylistic changes, which mostly reflected its current line-up. Mark E. Smith was known for having turbulent relationships with his bandmates which contributed to the fact that there were 66 different musicians in the band over the years. Despite his bad health in the recent years, the singer still frequently toured with the band.
Many musicians and industry workers paid tributes to Smith including his ex-wife and former The Fall guitarist, Brix Smith-Start.
“Mark defied convention and definition – he was a true artist.” she wrote in a statement. “When I arrived in Manchester – a young American – he introduced me to pickled onions, pubs and punk. He was my music mentor, my cultural anchor, and my first love. I feel deeply saddened by his passing, but I feel greater joy for having shared his journey.”
