Steve Harwell, a member of Smash Mouth, passed away at age 56.
Robert Hayes, the band’s manager, confirmed the news of Harwell’s passing after he was moved into hospice care after a liver illness diagnosis.
In an interview with Rolling Stone published on September 4, Hayes said that Harwell passed away ‘surrounded by family and friends’ at his Boise, Idaho, home.
According to reports, Harwell died “peacefully and comfortably.”
Hayes informed media outlets that Harwell would only be alive for a “short time” more before breaking the news of his death.
He added that Steve’s iconic voice is one of the most recognizable voices of his generation. Steve enjoyed performing and adored the crowd.
Although Steve is still here with them, tragically, his presence will only last a little while. The only thing he’d want to add is that they would appreciate it if people respected Steve and his family’s privacy during this trying time.
In 1994, the vocalist helped create Smash Mouth. Five years later, the group produced the now-iconic song “All Star,” which was used in the film Shrek two years later.
Along with songs like “Walkin’ On the Sun,” “Then the Morning Comes,” and “Pacific Coast Party,” Smash Mouth also gave the world a rendition of The Monkees’ popular song “I’m a Believer,” which was also used in the animated film Shrek.
Harwell left the music industry in 2021 after dealing with a lot of health problems.
Steve Harwell was a true American Original. A larger than life character who shot up into the sky like a Roman candle. Steve will be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom.
— Smash Mouth (@smashmouth) September 4, 2023
Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the… pic.twitter.com/qZDliiIl30
Following a diagnosis of acute Wernicke encephalopathy, a neurological disorder that impacted the singer’s memory and speech, the singer was first identified as having the cardiac condition cardiomyopathy in 2013.
Harwell said in a statement announcing his retirement that he has attempted so hard to power through his physical and mental health issues and to play in front of us one last time, but he just wasn’t able to.
Following his passing, fans have paid homage to Harwell, with one writing: “RIP Steve Harwell, you were our all star.”
“Smash Mouth’s Steve Harwell will be missed forever,” said another.
Before Harwell passed away, Hayes outlined how Smash Mouth had carried on touring for the previous several years with vocalist Zach Goode filling in for Harwell.
“His legacy will live on through the music,” Hayes said. In addition to topping the charts with two No. 1 hits, five Top 40 songs, three Hot 100 singles, four Billboard 200 albums, and a Grammy nomination, Smash Mouth has sold over 10 million records worldwide with Steve.
