Steve Harwell, the co-founder and former lead singer of the rock group Smash Mouth, has died.
Smash Mouth formed in 1994. The music group enjoyed many hits, including “All Star” and their cover of “I’m a Believer,” which added much to the movie “Shrek.”
Fox News reported that a representative for the notable singer called Harwell a “true American original.”
The representative added:
Steve…was 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.
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. Good night Heevo Veev. Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the stars, and magically hit your target.
RTM previously reported that Harwell was suffering from liver disease and was on hospice care at his home in Idaho.
Harwell’s manager Robert Hayes prepared fans for the inevitable, releasing the following statement last week: “Although Steve is here with us still, sadly it will only be for a short time.”
Harwell was an outstanding promoter and did much to help the group gain notoriety in the early years.
In a 1999 CNN Entertainment News report, Harwell said: “We never go through the front door. It’s always the back door, or an open window or something, to get our stuff played.”
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