Steve Harwell, Smash Mouth Singer, Dies
Steve Harwell, the singer of Smash Mouth best known for “All Star,” has died at 56.
According to the band’s manager, Robert Hayes, the singer “Passed peacefully and comfortably” at his home in Boise, Idaho on Monday, September 4th.
“Steve’s iconic voice is one of the most recognizable voices from his generation. He loved the fans and loved to perform,” Hayes said in a statement. “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 percent full-throttle life. Burning brightly across the universe before burning out.”
Hours before Harwell’s passing Hayes reported that the singer had entered hospice care due to liver failure and only had days to live.
Harwell co-founded Smash Mouth in 1994. The band’s breakout single “Walkin’ on the Sun” found great success, but it would be their single “All Star” from their 1999 album Astro Lounge that they would become known for and be responsible for countless memes.
Harwell retired from Smash Mouth last year due to health issues. He was replaced by Zach Goode.
We’d like to extend our thoughts to Harwell’s family and friends during this difficult time.
