Andy Rourke, the commanding bassist of beloved British rock bandthe Smiths, has died at age 59.
The band’s guitarist, Johnny Marr, announced the news on social media Friday.
We request privacy at this sad time."
Andy Rourke.Pete Still/Redferns
A representative for Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York confirmed the news toTheNewYorkTimes.
The quartet went on to reach mainstream success with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1984.
Ina tributeon his website, Morrissey remembered Rourke as a one-of-a-kind star.
“Sometimes one of the most radical things it’s possible for you to do is to speak clearly.
When someone dies, out come the usual blandishments … as if their death is there to be used.
I’m not prepared to do this with Andy,” Morrissey wrote.
“I just hope … wherever Andy has gone … that he’s OK.
He will never die as long as his music is heard.”
His distinction was so terrific and unconventional, and he proved it could be done.
I suppose, at the end of it all, we hope to feel that we were valued.
Andy need not worry about that."
He added, “Andy’s left the building, but his musical legacy is perpetual.
I miss you so much already.
Forever in my heart mate.”
