Smash Mouth Singer Steve Harwell Dead At 56

Former Smash Mouth singer Steve Harwell has passed away. He was 56.

Harwell passed away on Monday, September 4, at his home in Boise Idaho. He died of liver failure after receiving treatment in the hospital and spending the last few days of his life in hospice care.

“Steve Harwell passed away this morning September 4, 2023 at his home in Boise Idaho. He was surrounded by family and friends and passed peacefully and comfortably,” reads a statement provided by Smash Mouth manager Robert Hayes.

“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,” the statement continues.

“His only tools were his irrepressible charm and charisma, his fearlessly reckless ambition, and his king-size cajones. Steve lived a 100% full-throttle life. Burning brightly across the universe before burning out. Good night Heevo Veev. Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the stars, and magically hit your target.”

Harwell was the lead vocalist and frontman of Smash Mouth from its founding in 1994 until his retirement in 2021. The band first achieved success with their 1997 song “Walkin’ on the Sun.” Smash Mouth were best known from their 1999 hit “All Star”.

In 2013, Harwell was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and Wernicke encephalopathy, which can affect functions such as speech and memory. He was hospitalized in 2017 for his cardiomyopathy, leading to the cancellation of a show. He later implied that he retired due to these problems hindering his ability to perform.

(Photo: Eva Rinaldi)

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