Renowned Glam Rock Singer Dead At 73

Steve Harley, the singer for the British glam rock band Cockney Rebel, passed away this week at the age of 73. No cause of death was revealed.

 “We are devastated to announce that Steve, our wonderful husband, father and grandfather, 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. His home has been filled with the sounds and laughter of his four beloved Grandchildren,” the statement continued. “Stephen. Steve. Dad. Grandar. Steve Harley. Whoever you know him as, his heart exuded only core elements. Passion, kindness, generosity, and much more, in abundance.”

His family added, “Steve took enormous comfort from all of his fans’ well wishes during his battle, and we know he would want to thank you all deeply for your love and support throughout his career, and during his battle to the end,” 

“We know he will be desperately missed by countless friends, family and devoted fans all over the world, and we ask that you respectfully allow us privacy to grieve,” the statement concluded.

People

Cockney Rebel is best known for their hit “Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me),” which was released in 1975. While no details about the cause of Harley’s death have been released, the singer announced last month that he’d be steppingaway from touring in 2024 “due to ongoing treatment for cancer.”

Harley was born in London and joined the group in 1972. The following year, the band released their debut LP “The Human Menagerie,” which was followed by “The Psychomodo,” co-produced by Steve and Alan Parsons.

Although his 1975 hit “Make Me Smile” only reached 96 on the United States’ Billboard charts, the song was a number one smash hit in the U.K., and it has been covered hundreds of times by other artists such as Duran Duran, Erasure, and Suzi Quatro.

In 1977, Cockney Rebel dissolved temporarily, leading to Harley embarking on a solo career while also occasionally appearing with Cockney Rebel. Harley’s final album, titled “Uncovered,” was released in 2020 and included a collection of cover songs.

Rest in peace!

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