Mark E Smith, whose acerbic tongue, total disdain for commercialism and above all talent for writing some of British music’s best post-punk alternative anthems made him a cult hero in the truest sense, has died at the age of 60.
The Fall frontman remained the only constant through his band’s near-four decade career, the revolving door of musicians becoming famous since the release of debut album Live At The Witch Trials in 1979.
“It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E. Smith,” a statement posted on Twitter by Fall News on behalf of the band’s manager Pam Van Damned reads. “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.”
Smith had been suffering with poor health last year which resulted in postponed tours, though he was able to play a gig in Wakefield last October despite being confined to a wheelchair. This also didn’t slow down his prolific output, and the 32nd Fall studio album New Facts Emerge was released in July 2017.