The Fall’s Mark E Smith has died

Terribly, terribly sad news. Mark E Smith, frontman of The Fall, has died at age 60. Word came from band manager Pamela Vander (via Fall News): "It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E. Smith. 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."

The Fall canceled most of their 2017 autumn tour, including what were supposed to be the band's first NYC shows in a decade, due to Mark's failing health. The rescheduled NYC dates were canceled again a month ago.

Few bands of the last 40 years have been as influential to indie, alt, what-have-you, as The Fall, and few bands remained as relevant for as long either. Bilious, scathingly funny, thoughtful, crazy, often inscrutable (both literally and figuratively), MES was a one-of-a-kind. Rest in peace, Mark.

You can read tributes from fellow artists such as Cat Power, Billy Bragg, Greg Dulli, Peter Hook and more here. Watch some classic Fall videos below.