Smash Mouth co-founder and lead singer Steve Harwell passed away Monday morning at the age of 56, and devastated friends and fans alike flooded social media with tributes to the late singer.
Several publications confirmed Harwell's death with the following statement from band representative 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 continued:
“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.”
The band also tweeted Hayes' statement, garnering an outpouring of love, support, and heartbreak from fans.
Guy Fieri paid his respects on X, formerly Twitter, writing:
"To my brutha Steve RIP Today is a sad day, I will miss my friend."
Many others followed suit, expressing their sorrow over the news.
Several also commented on the lasting impression of Harwell's music.
In 2021, TMZ reported on Harwell's health following his retirement from music.
“We’re told he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy eight years ago, which has led to other medical setbacks like heart failure and Wernicke’s encephalopathy … a condition that impacts his motor functions, including speech and memory."
"He’s also battled substance abuse over the years, which is further contributing to his health crisis.”
TMZ reported Harwell had been in hospice in the days leading up to his death and had reached the final stage of liver failure.
Harwell died the following day.
Rest in peace.
Jane Rosenberg
Jane Rosenberg
@arianagrande/Instagram
@arianagrande/Instagram