Steve Harwell, founder and lead singer of rock band Smash Mouth has died at the age of 56 at his home in Boise, Idaho.
“Steve Harwell was a true American Original. 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,” longtime manager Robert Hayes said in a statement.
Harwell began his career as a rapper with the group F.O.S. (Freedom of Speech) but grew dissatisfied with hip hop and decided he wanted to form a rock band. Thus, Smash Mouth was formed in San Jose, California in 1994. The original lineup consisted of Harwell on vocals, Kevin Coleman on drums, Greg Camp on guitar, and Paul De Lisle on bass.
The band found success with their debut album “Fu Yu Mang” which included the band’s first major single, “Walkin’ on the Sun” in 1997. Smash Mouth continued their rise into stardom with their triple platinum second album “Astro Lounge” which spawned their most well-known single, “All Star” in 1999.
“All Star” reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and was featured on the soundtrack for the iconic film “Shrek” which also included their cover of “I’m a Believer,” a super hit for The Monkees in 1966. “All Star” remains firmly entrenched in popular culture over two decades since its’ release.
Smash Mouth continued to release material into the 2000s but were not able to match their previous success. Smash Mouth released their last studio album “Magic” in 2012.
Harwell decided to step down from touring with the band and retire in 2021 due to health issues. “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,” Harwell said in a statement at the time of his retirement.
Smash Mouth has continued to tour with new vocalist Zach Goode. Paul De Lisle is the only remaining original member with the band.
Harwell suffered from alcoholism over the years and was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy in 2013. Harwell’s cause of death has been attributed to liver failure.
