Fred Smith, an original member of legendary rock band Blondie, has died at the age of 77.
Smith was a founding member and bassist of the band along with Debbie Harry and Chris Stein, and was also known for his work with the New York group Television.
He began his music with Angel and the Snake, which would later become Blondie, staying with the band for a year before quitting in 1975, joining Television to replace Richard Hell.
Speaking at the time, Smith said: "Blondie was like a sinking ship and Television was my favourite band."
He played with Television until their split in 1978, featuring on the albums Marquee Moon (1977) Adventure (1978).
His bandmate, guitarist Jimmy Rip, wrote a tribute to Smith on Instagram following the news of his death, saying Smith was “not only my bandmate for 46 years - he was my true friend.”
Rip added: "His sense of humor, much like his musical voice, was dry, subtle, to the point, hilarious and always left you wanting a more. Yesterday, he left this world, leaving so many who loved him wanting so much more.”
"He fought his illness long and hard these last few years, looking always forward to new projects… we had big plans to play Tom’s music live this year… but it just wasn’t meant to be. Thankfully, we were able to say goodbye, “love you” were our last words to each other.
"I will miss him more than anyone can imagine.”
Rip effused about Smith’s musical ability, saying he was a natural, never flashy, always essential, always serving the song in ways that only the greatest musicians can.
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from fellow music greats, including Tish and Snooky Bellomo, who founded Manic Panic.
They wrote: “We knew Fred from being in the first Blondie lineup with him and we remained close friends ever since. Most famous for being the legendary bassist for Television, he played with countless other greats.
“Fredski was the sweetest, most genuine, brilliant gentle man. To his beautiful wife Paula, and all who loved him – we share your sorrow deeply.”
Smith rejoined Television for their 1992 reunion, and the band released their self-titled third album and played a string of live gigs in the 2000s.
Marquee Moon brought the group their widest acclaim, reaching no. 28 on the UK charts.
The album regularly appears on lists of top albums, and it was ranked 107th on Rolling Stone magazine’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” list in 2020.
Smith also worked with The Roches, The Fleshtones, Willie Nile, Peregrins, and The Revelons during his career.
He is survived by his wife, artist Paula Cereghino.
