Mark E. Smith, the founder and only consistent member of The Fall, died Tuesday at the age of 60.
The news of the singer’s death was announced on Twitter in a statement from the band’s manager. “It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E. Smith,” wrote Pam Van Damned. “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.”
mith formed The Fall in 1976 with fellow original members Martin Bramah, Una Baines, and Tony Friel. But throughout the British post-punk band’s prolific run, which included 32 studio albums, Smith was the only constant. Over its 42-year history, 66 different musicians were a member of The Fall. “Prince’s manager once told me that I was the only person other than Prince who can recruit from the streets,” Smith told The Guardian earlier this year. “Which was very flattering.”
The singer’s passing prompted tributes on social media, ranging from the band Garbage to Baby Driver director Edgar Wright.
“Alas, the great Mark E Smith has passed away,” shared Wright on Twitter. “Not merely a legend of indie music, but someone who, for me, was a gateway into that very genre. Will be blasting the A Sides album all week now. The Fall are no more, long live the Fall!”
