Mark Stewart, the legendary punk musician who fronted pop groups and The Maffia and was a longtime influencer who worked with the likes of New Age Steppers, Tricky and Massive Attack, has died aged 62.
The news was confirmed today (April 21) by the pop group’s Twitter account and one of its record labels, Mute.
The official statement read: “Mark Stewart passed away in the early hours of Friday, April 21, 2023.
“Mark has fellowship with love. As Sufis say There is no such thing as death, no one dies, but death is so precious that it is hidden in fear.
“Mark’s family and friends respectfully request that they be accommodated at this difficult time.”
Former label boss and friend Daniel Miller of Mutt said: “I’ve known Mark as a friend and fellow traveler for over 40 years, since she was the lead singer of The Pop Group. I have many wonderful memories of him – some strange, some disgusting, but always inspiring and for some reason.
“His musical influence is far greater than is often recognized. He has always encouraged young artists, especially those from the local area in Bristol – many of whom have gone on to become international stars.
“His love and kindness as a friend has always been very important to me. We had a lot of laughs together, and he had so much creative energy. I last saw Mark a few months ago in Bristol, where he was doing improv. He’s on set with Lee Ranaldo. He’s hilarious. It was nothing but, his class was basically a stand up routine, and we spent hours after the show putting the world to rights, it’s an amazing memory, I miss him so much.
“Mark, I can’t imagine you being anything other than restless, but I hope you find your special peace.”
Pop group guitarist/saxophonist Gareth Sager paid tribute: “Mark was the most amazing mind of my generation. RIP.”
And friend Adrian Sherwood at On-U Sound added: “Thank you brother. You are the biggest musical influence in my life and our family will miss you dearly. Love forever.”
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