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Steve Mackey, Pulp Bassist, Dies

Steve Mackey, the bassist of Pulp, has died. He was 56 years old.

The band shared a statement announcing Mackey’s death on Thursday morning. A cause of death was not revealed.

“Our beloved friend & bass player Steve Mackey passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with his family & loved ones. Safe travels, Steve. We hope to catch up with you one day. All our love xx”

Mackey’s wife Katie Grand also released a statement shedding some more light on the situation:

“After three months in hospital, fighting with all his strength and determination, we are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey. Steve died today, a loss which has left myself, his son Marley, parents Kath and Paul, sister Michelle and many friends all heartbroken. Steve was the most talented man I knew, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker. As in life, he was adored by everyone whose paths he crossed in the multiple creative disciplines he conquered. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the NHS staff who worked tirelessly for Steve. He will be missed beyond words.”

Mackey joined Pulp in 1989 before the band entered the studio to start working on their third album Separations. He played on all the band’s subsequent albums, including 1994’s His ‘n’ Hers, 1995’s Different Class, 1998’s This Is Hardcore, and 2001’s We Love Life.

Following their breakup in 2002, Mackey joined Pulp’s first reunion tour from 2011-2013. Last year he announced he would not join the band for their 2023 reunion shows.

Outside of Pulp, Mackey worked as a songwriter and producer, who has worked with M.I.A, Florence + The Machine, Palma Violets, and Arcade Fire.

Our hearts go out to Mackey’s family and friends during this difficult time.

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Ashley Perez Hollingsworth

Ashley Perez is a freelance music journalist based in Chicago. Her work has appeared on AXS, Chicago Innerview, New City, The Millions, and Illinois Entertainer. She also runs her own music blog at Radio Not Found. Some of her favorite bands include Nirvana, The Cure, Muse, Creeper, and Green Day.

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