Rocker Steve Harley has died after a short battle with cancer at the age of 73.
The Cockney Rebel frontman died at his Suffolk home on Sunday morning (March 17). His family took to his official Facebook page to confirm the news with a touching tribute.
It read: “We are devastated to announce that tour wonderful husband and father has passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side. The birdsong from his woodland that he loved so much was singing for him.
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“His home has been filled with the sounds and laughter of his four grandchildren. Stephen. Steve. Dad. Steve Harley. Whoever you know him as, his heart exuded only core elements. Passion, kindness, generosity. And much more, in abundance.
(Image: Getty Images)
“We know he will be desperately missed by people all over the world, and we ask that you respectfully allow us privacy to grieve.” His tragic passing comes one month after he was forced to halt his tour to have treatment.
Writing to his fans back in February on his official social media account, his manager wrote: “Due to on-going treatment for cancer, Steve cannot commit to any concerts in 2024. “Steve is hoping next year will be altogether different.
“He appreciates all your kind words and good wishes. Team SH.” His fans immediately flooded to the comments to pass on their well wishes. One user writing: “All the best with your treatment Steve. Here’s hoping for a full recovery.”
(Image: 2015 Harry Herd)
Another added: “Hope you feel better soon, sending love to you and yours,” as a third echoed: “Sending positive thoughts your way. Best wishes to you and your family.”
Steve had a hugely successful music career with his rock band. The original band was made up of Harley, Jean-Paul Crocker, drummer Stuart Elliott, bassist Paul Jeffreys and guitarist Nick Jones.
They first soared to stardom with a huge hit across Europe with the single Sebastian from their debut album with EMI in 1973. They also soared to the top spot in the Netherlands and Belgium.
(Image: 2022 Roberto Ricciuti)
But it’s fair to say the hitmaker is best known for his 1975 hit Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me) which went to number one in the charts. The song has hit a chord with fans throughout the decades and is often cited in votes for top singles in chart history.
The Performing Rights Society have confirmed it as one of the most played records in British broadcasting. He also enjoyed a brief stint as a solo artist before the band regrouped in April 1990 after the success of Harley’s 1989 tour.
The seventies icon was known for his larger-than-life personality and said in an interview with The Independent: “I never meant to be arrogant; just honest.” Fans flooded to social media to share their condolences to the late musician online.
(Image: 2017 Lorne Thomson)
One user penned: “[A] brilliant musician and a great story teller. Fab live performer. RIP Steve Harley.” Another agreed: “Legend Steve Harley has died, he of Cockney Rebel fame. My thoughts are with his family and friends, another legend gone to the great concert in the sky.”
Steve also shared his sadness over radio icon Steve Wright’s death back in February, adding that it had “shattered” him because they had known each other since the sixties.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
