04 September 2023 , 15:05
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The lead singer of Smash Mouth, Steve Harwell, has died at 56.
His manager, Robert Hayes, told The Mirror in a statement: "Steve Harwell passed away this morning September 4, 2023 at his home in Boise Idaho. He was surrounded by family and friends and passed peacefully and comfortably."
Steve retired from Smash Mouth two years ago and the band tours with Zach Goode. However, his manager said that "Steve's legacy will live on through the music". While in the band, they achieved great success with over 10 million albums sold world-wide.
A dedicated musician, Steve had love for his craft and music. "He loved the fans and loved to perform," his manager said.
Steve will be remembered for his legacy in the rock band Smash Mouth (WireImage)
The band has achieved immense musical success (WireImage)In the statement, he said: "[Smash Mouth] topped the charts with two #1 hit singles, five Top 40 singles, three Hot 100 singles, four Billboard 200 albums and a Grammy nomination not to mention the hundreds of film and television placements and of course those musical features in Shrek! Steve's iconic voice is one of the most recognizable voices from his generation."
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Robert added: "Steve Harwell was a true American Original. A larger than life character who shot up into the sky like a Roman candle. Steve should be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom. And the fact that he achieved this near-impossible goal with very limited musical experience makes his accomplishments all the more remarkable. His only tools were his irrepressible charm and charisma, his fearlessly reckless ambition, and his king-size cajones. Steve lived a 100% full-throttle life. Burning brightly across the universe before burning out."
Steve expressed great gratitude towards his fans and bandmates before his passing (Getty Images)Steve had been in the final stages of liver failure. He died at his home with family while in hospice treatment. Throughout his life, Steve had struggled with alcohol abuse and addiction. It has previously been reported that this contributed to his health conditions and complications, including cardiomyopathy.
Steve announced his retirement in 2021. In a statement to TMZ at the time, he said: "I've tried so hard to power through my physical and mental health issues, and to play in front of you one last time, but I just wasn't able to."
He called performing alongside his bandmates an "honour" and thanked his "loyal and amazing fans". Additionally, Steve's legacy will live on through his philanthropic endeavors as well. In 2001, he established The Presley Scott Research Foundation for Leukemia in honor of his late son.
His manager paid tribute, stating: "Good night Heevo Veev. Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the stars, and magically hit your target. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him."