The Smiths bassist Andy Rourke has died aged 59 after a "lengthy illness with pancreatic cancer".
His former bandmate Johnny Marr said on Twitter 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."
Andy played on The Smiths' classic back catalogue and on solo songs for Morrissey when the group split up. He was known for his melodic approach to bass playing, reports The Mirror.
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The musician first received an acoustic guitar when he was only seven years old. At the age of 11, he became friends with Johnny Marr and the pair spent lunch breaks in school playing on their guitars.
When the two formed a band, Johnny suggested Andy try playing the bass, which he fell in love with. Andy left school when he was 15 and played in several rock bands before teaming up with Morrissey, drummer Mike Joyce and Johnny to form The Smiths.
He joined the band after its first gig and stayed through most of its existence. Throughout his career, he played with Sinead O'Connor, the Pretenders, Aziz Ibrahim (of the Stone Roses) and Killing Joke. In 2007, he formed Freebass with bass players Stone Roses' Mani and New Order's Peter Hook.
Following his death, fans and friends paid tribute to the talented guitarist. "Very sad to hear this. Andy was a lovely person and one of the best at his instrument. RIP Andy," New Order guitarist Phillip Cunningham said.
New Order's Tom Chapman wrote: "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."
Another person posted: "Very sad. His bass playing was as distinctive as Johnny's guitar playing or Morrisey's voice."
The Smiths' record producer tweeted: "So sad to hear this news Johnny. Thinking of you at this moment and sending my very best wishes and condolences."
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