Tragic and upsetting news coming out of New Jersey - Pat DiNizio of The Smithereens has died at the age of 62. The band broke the news overnight on their website and social media. It's been reported that DiNizio's health had been declining after suffering from neurological damage from a fall in 2015, though no cause of death has been announced.
DiNizio and The Smithereens crafted so many beloved songs and the band has been . It truly is a sad day in the world of music. R.I.P.
Read the announcement from The Smithereens below:
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Pat DiNizio, lead singer and songwriter of the influential New Jersey rock band, The Smithereens - America's Band.
Pat was looking forward to getting back on the road and seeing his many fans and friends. Please keep Pat in your thoughts and prayers.
Today we mourn the loss of our friend, brother and bandmate Pat DiNizio. Pat had the magic touch. He channeled the essence of joy and heartbreak into hook-laden three minute pop songs infused with a lifelong passion for rock & roll. Our journey with Pat was long, storied and a hell of a lot of fun. We grew up together. Little did we know that we wouldn’t grow old together.
Goodbye Pat. Seems like yesterday.
Jimmy, Mike, Dennis
December 12, 2017
Published December 13th, 2017