Spinner

Bassist Mark Smith Dies at 49

Bassist Mark Smith was found dead in his London apartment Monday, Nov. 2, when he failed to turn up for a gig. The 49-year-old made a career out of playing as a session and touring musician for popular acts such as Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry, Robbie Williams and David Gray. The cause of death is currently unknown.

Born in 1960, Smith got his start with the '70s British band Kokomo when their bassist went on tour with Roxy Music. While most session musicians remain in the background, their contributions are often heralded and it's no exception in Smith's case. Speaking with Music Week producer Robin Milar described Smith as a "true unsung heroes. Mark was one of the great people and players. He was one of those guys who never pushed himself forward, but was a great all round musician -- a real musicians' musician."

Most recently, Smith had performed with the Waterboys and the Futility Orchestra. According to his website, he has also recorded with Joe Cocker, George Michael, Mickey Hart, Lionel Richie, Neneh Cherry, Van Morrison and Jarvis Cocker among many notables.

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vandenbusche

I learn the news as I read Spinner .For me it's a sad news because M E Smith gave a new punch to rock punk music .The fall were a great band .

December 15 2010 at 3:42 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Alex Robinson

The picture is of Mark E Smith from the Fall.

December 27 2009 at 5:29 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
JC\'s Girl

Mark was a very sweet man and a reliable, very professional, knowledgeable, talented musician. Unlike many artists he was never a self-destructive prima donna. He was a joy to hang out with. Regardless of how many famous rockers he worked with and for, he never name-dropped. He was far too young to pass on. You'll be missed, my friend.

November 13 2009 at 6:29 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
surfergirl

fangkaishou8....I STRONGLY URGE you get some long term therapy, you definately have some mental problems. Don't get involved in any relationships with a man until you get the help that you so desperately need.

November 13 2009 at 5:53 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
colterphoto1

Roxy's bass player roster reads like a Who's Who, but Mark Smith did take up the spot in the post-breakup reunion tours 2002-2004. Although Zev Katz played on the reunion DVD, if you love Roxy Music, get Roxy Live at the Apollo for an all-star cast of their finest tunes recorded brilliantly. RIP Mark, 49 is too young to pass from this world.

November 13 2009 at 5:02 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Me

Let's try again. Who is Mark Smith?

November 13 2009 at 5:02 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
oh oh

WARNING ITS BEEN RUMORED THAT ALL WHOSE WHO USE THIS SITES FOR DATING WILL BE BANNED FROM FORMING AN OPINION...


MAY YOU ROT IN HELL,,,, THIS MAN WAS A BASS (SOUL MAN SORTA GUY) HOPE YOU BURN UNTIL AOL GET ON YOUR SILLY BUTTS AND PLACES A PENALTY ON YOU,,,,

HOPE THIS HEPLS MOST OF US,....

November 13 2009 at 3:54 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
jack

any good pumpkin pies out there? Apple is fine but banana cream better, how about boston cream pie now we are talking.
who cares about the dead guy he is dead, gone. Lets talk about the dates, figs and what you can do with them.Or we can go to chat rms and be fat and pretend we are skinny

November 13 2009 at 1:38 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Me

Who's Mark Smith?

November 12 2009 at 11:50 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
1 reply to Me's comment
oyto

Fuck you!

December 23 2009 at 5:56 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
FC

Mark was an amazing bassist and played with the top musicians , especially Roxy Music...any bassist with Phil Manzanera would have to be thee best!

November 12 2009 at 11:26 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply