We’re sad to report that Steve Harwell, the legendary musician and lead singer of Smash Mouth, has left us. News broke that Steve had passed away at the age of 56, after a battle with liver failure that had led him into hospice care.
This somber news comes just days after reports surfaced indicating that Steve’s condition was dire, with doctors predicting only a few days left for him. His struggle with alcohol abuse had taken a heavy toll on his health, ultimately culminating in the final stages of liver failure.
On Sunday morning (September 3), Steve peacefully and comfortably departed from this world at his residence in Boise, Idaho. He was surrounded by his loved ones, offering him support and solace in his final moments.
Smash Mouth is a band that needs no introduction, having skyrocketed to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Their hit single “All Star” became an anthem of its era, and they kept delivering the goods with chart-toppers like “I’m A Believer,” “Can’t Get Enough Of You Baby,” and “Walkin’ On The Sun.”
Robert Hayes, the band manager for Smash Mouth, took a moment to reflect on Steve’s legacy in a statement, saying:
“Steve has been retired from Smash Mouth for two years now, and the band continues to tour with new vocalist Zach Goode. That said, Steve’s legacy will live on through the music. With Steve, Smash Mouth has sold over 10 million albums worldwide and topped the charts with two #1 hit singles, five Top 40 singles, three Hot 100 singles, four Billboard 200 albums, and a Grammy nomination—not to mention the hundreds of film and television placements and, of course, those musical features in Shrek.”
He continued with heartfelt words:
“Steve’s iconic voice is one of the most recognizable voices from his generation. He loved the fans and loved to perform. 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.”
Steve Harwell’s journey in the world of music will forever be etched in our memories, and his contributions to the industry will continue to resonate with fans worldwide. While he may have left us, his music remains a timeless testament to his talent and passion. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time as they remember the indelible mark he left on the world of music.
