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Steve Harwell of Smash Mouth

Steve Harwell, the Iconic Singer of Smash Mouth, Dies at 56

The rock band's vocalist died at the age of 56 due to liver failure

Steve Harwell, the singer of Smash Mouth, has passed away at the age of 56. The rock band’s vocalist died on September 4, 2023, due to liver failure. The band’s representative, Robert Hayes, confirmed the artist’s death to Rolling Stone. He mentioned that Harwell passed away comfortably at his home in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by family and friends.

«Steve retired from Smash Mouth two years ago, and the band continued to tour with a new vocalist, Zach Goode. That being said, Steve’s legacy will live on through the music,» stated the representative in the official statement. He also added that Steve Harwell died «peacefully and comfortably.»

This news comes a day after it was reported that the vocalist was in critical condition and receiving palliative care. According to TMZ, doctors had given him only a few days to live due to his critical health condition.

It was in 2021 when, after suffering serious health problems due to alcohol abuse, Steve Harwell decided to part ways with the band. He penned a letter to his fans apologizing for not being able to overcome his «physical and mental problems.»

«Since I was a child, I dreamed of being a rock star playing in sold-out stadiums, and I’ve been incredibly lucky to live that dream. To my bandmates, it’s been an honor playing with you all these years, and I can’t think of anyone else I would have wanted to embark on this wild journey with,» he wrote, announcing his departure.

A Nº 1 in Lista LOS40

Steve Harwell was the co-founder of the American band Smash Mouth in 1994. Alongside drummer Kevin Colman, guitarist Greg Camp, and bassist Paul de Lisle, they formed a powerhouse that revolutionized the music scene. With their debut album, Fush Yu Mang, they visited Spain in 1998. However, their debut album’s presentation concert in Madrid left a bitter memory as it had to be canceled due to heavy rain.

The band’s true success came with their involvement in the Shrek film series. Thanks to the green ogre and his adventures, they became popular with hits like «All Star» and their version of «I’m a Believer» by The Monkees.

The legendary group, Smash Mouth, also made it to the LOS40 chart with their hit «Why Can’t We Be Friends» in September 1998, marking its 25th anniversary now. It was a reggae version of the song originally recorded by the group War in 1975. Although they only achieved one number one hit, from 1998 to 2023, Smash Mouth managed to place a total of six hits on our radio.

From LOS40, we send our deepest condolences to his closest family and friends. Thank you for your successes and your music, which will continue to resonate wherever you are.