The Smiths bassist Andy Rourke has passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
His former bandmate Johnny Marr took to Twitter this morning to announce the sad news and described the 59-year-old, from Manchester, as a 'supremely gifted musician'.
He said: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andy Rourke after a lengthy illness with pancreatic cancer.
"Andy will be remembered as a kind and beautiful soul by those who knew him and as a supremely gifted musician by music fans. We request privacy at this sad time."
Rourke was always praised for his melodic approach to playing the bass guitar. He played on the Smiths’ classic back catalogue, as well as on solo songs for frontman Morrissey after the group disbanded.
In 2007, he formed Freebass with fellow Mancunian bass players Stone Roses' Mani and New Order's Peter Hook.
And after Johnny's post, the tributes came flooding in.
Hacienda DJ Dave Haslam wrote: "Oh that’s horrible news about a really lovely man. Bless you Andy. Sending love to you Johnny and to all Andy’s family and friends x".
Suede bassist Mat Osman wrote: "Aw man. RIP Andy Rourke. A total one-off - a rare bassist whose sound you could recognise straight away. I remember so clearly playing that Barbarism break over and over, trying to learn the riff, and marvelling at this steely funk driving the track along."
Another friend wrote: "Deepest Condolences Johnny. RIP Andy."
While one penned: "Very sad news . Andy was a kind soul and very talented, one of the best bass players and musician to come out of Manchester a true inspiration to me and so many others. Rest in Powers Andy."
And one added: "I am so sorry to hear Johnny, thoughts are with you, his family, and everyone who he touched with his music - an essential part of the sound of the Smiths."
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