Smash Mouth Lead Singer Dead At Age 56

Steve Harwell, the lead singer of Smash Mouth has died following a lengthy battle with his health. No specific cause of death was revealed. He was 56 years old.

"Steve Harwell passed away this morning September 4, 2023 at his home in Boise Idaho. He was surrounded by family and friends and passed peacefully and comfortably."

This news came one day after it was confirmed he was in hospice care at home. He is preceded by his son Presley Scott Harwell, who passed away at the age of six months due to complications from acute lymphocytic leukemia. 

Steve co-founded Smash Mouth in 1994, and rose to international fame in the years following with hits like 'Walkin' on the Sun,' 'All Star,' and a cover of 'I'm a Believer,' originally released in 1966 by The Monkees. It was written by Neil Diamond. 'I'm a Believer' and 'All Star' were featured in the 2001 animated film 'Shrek.'

Steve also made a cameo in the 2001 film 'Rat Race' and starred on VH1 reality show 'The Surreal Life' in 2006.

He retired in October 2021, in order to focus on his health, after he exhibited some concerning behaviour, including slurring his words while performing.

At the time, the band's rep said he left Smash Mouth to focus on longstanding medical issues. They said Steve "has suffered profusely over the years with several types of addiction leading to medical and mental health issues." 

These included cardiomyopathy and Wernickes encephalopathy, which is a neurological condition that "has greatly impacted his motor functions including speech and impaired memory."

Steve also released his own statement at the time. "Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being a Rockstar performing in front of sold-out arenas and have been so fortunate to live out that dream. To my bandmates, it's been an honor performing with you all these years and I can't think of anyone else I would have rather gone on this wild journey with."

"To our loyal and amazing fans, thank you, all of this was possible because of you. I've tried so hard to power through my physical and mental health issues, and to play in front of you one last time, but I just wasn't able to. I am so grateful to each and every one of you who has helped Smash Mouth sell over 10 million albums worldwide, put us on top of radio charts and those who have kept All Star relevant as one of the top memes on the internet today."

Following his retirement, the new frontman of Smash Mouth was Zach Goode, who will continue to tour with the band, following Steve's death.

"With Steve, Smash Mouth has sold over 10 Million albums worldwide-wide and topped the charts with two #1 hit singles, five Top 40 singles, three Hot 100 singles, four Billboard 200 albums and a Grammy nomination not to mention the hundreds of film and television placements and of course those musical features in Shrek! Steve's iconic voice is one of the most recognizable voices from his generation. He loved the fans and loved to perform."

Calling him a "true American Original," he was referred to as, "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. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him."