Lead singer and co-founder of synthpop band Talk Talk, Mark Hollis, has died aged 64.
The news has yet to be officially confirmed by Mark’s reps, and no cause of death has been released, but his cousin-in-law, Anthony Costello, and former bandmate, Paul Webb – aka Rustin Man – have both put out tributes to the musician on social media.
RIP Mark Hollis. Cousin-in-law. Wonderful husband and father. Fascinating and principled man. Retired from the music business 20 years ago but an indefinable musical icon.
Talk Talk – It’s My Life (Live at Montreux 1986) https://t.co/eGRfLWHt6r— Anthony Costello (@globalhlthtwit) February 25, 2019
Bassist Paul wrote on his Facebook page about his shock at Mark’s passing.
Read more: Reverand Ruth Scott has died from cancer at 60
The 80s new wave band produced classic tracks It’s My Life, Life’s What You Make It, and Today, and their albums, Spirit of Eden, The Colour of Spring, and Laughing Stock have all been called masterpieces over the years.
Mark was the founder, lead songwriter, singer and creative spearhead of the band, but retired from music 20 years ago and became reclusive, wanting to live his life out of the public eye.
Fans of his from around the world, particularly in the music business, have flocked to send condolences.
Tim Pope, who directed the group’s music videos wrote: “Goodbye to Mark Hollis of Talk Talk… We had many, many laughs together.”
Goodbye to Mark Hollis of Talk Talk. Condolences to his lovely family. We had many, many laughs together. This is us being the nightmare interview from hell https://t.co/xzqfQnN4P6
— Tim Pope🎥 (@timpopedirector) February 25, 2019
And Hollywood actor Elijah Wood said: “Sad to hear that Mark Hollis has passed,” before retweeting a number of other fan tributes.
Sad to hear that Mark Hollis has passedhttps://t.co/348JSojg2U
— Elijah Wood (@elijahwood) February 25, 2019
Vampire Weekend lead singer Chris Baio said that Mark “changed my life”.
Mark Hollis changed my life. Thank you for everything
— Chris Baio (@OIAB) February 25, 2019
And band Doves released a message saying they couldn’t “overstate the influence” Mark had had on them as musicians.
Goodbye Mark Hollis,We owe you so much ,I cant overstate the influence on us three as musicians and us as a band.#markhollis #talktalk
— Doves (@dovesmusicblog) February 25, 2019
Read more: Paul O’Grady left devastated by death of beloved dog
Do you remember Talk Talk? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think.