The Smiths bassist Andy Rourke dies aged 59

Musician Andy Rourke has died at the age of 59, according to an announcement from his band, after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer.

Rourke was an acclaimed bassist iconic English rock band The Smiths. His contributions to the band were significant, playing on their most renowned tracks such as This Charming Man and There Is a Light That Never Goes Out. He continued collaborating with lead singer Morrissey on solo releases after the band disbanded in 1987.

Throughout his career, Rourke showcased his bass skills on all four of the Smiths’ studio albums and collaborated with various artists, including the Pretenders, Killing Joke, Sinead O’Connor, and Badly Drawn Boy.

In later years, he formed the supergroup Freebass with bassists Mani from the Stone Roses and Peter Hook from New Order, demonstrating his enduring influence on Manchester’s music scene.

Smith’s guitarist Johnny Marr expressed his sadness over Rourke’s death describing him as a kind and beautiful soul, cherished by those who knew him, and hailed him as an extraordinarily talented musician revered by fans worldwide. 

Andy Rourke tributes

Rourke’s bandmate, drummer Mike Joyce, tweeted: “Not only the most talented bass player I’ve ever had the privilege to play with but the sweetest, funniest lad I’ve ever met. Andy’s left the building, but his musical legacy is perpetual. I miss you so much already. Forever in my heart mate.”

Suede bassist Mat Osman described Rourke as “a total one-off” and “a rare bassist whose sound you could recognise straight away”.

“I remember so clearly playing that Barbarism break over and over, trying to learn the riff, and marvelling at this steely funk driving the track along,” he recalled.

The Smiths producer Stephen Street added: “I am so saddened to hear this news. Andy was a superb musician and a lovely guy.

“I haven’t been able to read any other news about details yet but I send my deepest condolences and thoughts to his friends and family. RIP.”