The legendary Mark E. Smith, leader of one of the most important and influential bands of all time has died at the age of 60. According to Smith's manager Pam Van Damned, the legend passed away this morning at home. She also reveals that "a more detailed statement will follow in the next few days."
The news is so very upsetting and heartbreaking, but sadly it wasn't unexpected. Smith was in poor health over the last year and had canceled last year's U.S. tour and several shows in the U.K. because he was too sick to perform. In November a few fans who showed up to the Fall's canceled show in Bristol had reportedly been told by the Fall's inner circle that everyone was deeply concerned Smith's health was rapidly deteriorating. Smith remained optimistic and told fans he would reschedule shows and release more music soon. Alas, it was not to be.
How do you even begin to say goodbye to a legend? Words fail at this point. Smith was undeniably a uniquely talented and brilliant songsmith who brought a raucous energy and wit to the stage. He was an unusual rockstar that was so very un-rockstar-like. Truly a one-of-a-kind artist. There will never be another like MES.
R.I.P.
Jello Biafra gazing up at Mark E Smith, San Francisco July 1981 pic.twitter.com/fLLGzo2MMg
— Dorian Cope (@OnThisDeity) January 24, 2018
Sad to hear about the death of Mark E. Smith at 60. British music loses one of its most original and prolific talents. pic.twitter.com/ALqXl3zfBg
— THE THE (@thethe) January 24, 2018
Mark E. Smith once fired his sound engineer for ordering a salad. #thatsrocknroll
— Ian McNabb (@empiresend) January 24, 2018
I have a Mark E Smith story actually. Back in the day Suede got asked to support The Fall on a couple of dates. To a man we were massive fans and VERY excited to be asked. Everyone told us he could be rough on support bands but he was great. Lots of time to soundcheck. (1)
— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018
He was friendly, helpful, told us to come straight to him with any problem. The shows were great, his crowd were great, The Fall were great. On our way home in the van we were listening to Richard Skinner and he had an interview with Mark. We listened in intently. (2)
— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018
Especially when Skinner asked, "Do you like any of the new bands who are calling you an influence."
— Mat Osman (@matosman) January 24, 2018
Mark said "Like who?"
Skinner asked "Well, like Suede."
There was a perfectly timed beat.
"Never heard of them."
Like Bowie, Mark E Smith's death is being mourned by all ages. I think of him as the gunpowder of the late 70s. Others claim him in the 80s. Yet more for the 90s and then there's those who caught up with him in this century. That tells you everything.
— Danny Baker (@prodnose) January 24, 2018
A unique maverick musician dies and every journo writes about themselves in relation to MES. Ignore all the bullshit. Get your Fall albums out and immerse yourself in the greatness of the band and the sublime genius of Mark E Smith
— Kevin Cummins (@KCMANC) January 24, 2018
FYI: If you'd like to add to your Fall collection Cherry Red released a career-spanning anthology last year titled The Fall Singles 1978 - 2016. This is highly recommended for anyone looking to delve into this iconic band's catalog. There's a 7 disc deluxe edition (A-Sides + B-sides) or a three disc version with just the A-sides.
Published January 24th, 2018