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Pulp bassist Steve Mackey has died aged 56
The musician died following a three-month stay in hospital.
Image: Shirlaine Forrest/Getty
Steve Mackey, bassist for Britpop band Pulp, has died at the age of 56.
The news was broken by the musician’s wife, Katie Grand, in a new post shared on social media earlier today (2 March).
“We are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye to my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey,” she wrote.
“Steve was the most talented man I have ever known, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker… I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the NHS staff who worked tirelessly for Steve. He will be missed beyond words.”
Although no cause of death has been announced, the musician’s wife confirms that Mackey had spent the past three months in hospital due to health issues.
Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker also took to social media to share a tribute to his bandmate.
“Our beloved friend & bass player Steve Mackey passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with his family & loved ones,” he wrote, sharing a picture of Mackey in South America during Pulp’s 2012 tour.
“Steve made things happen. In his life & in the band & we’d very much like to think that he’s back in those mountains now, on the next stage of his adventure. Safe travels, Steve. We hope to catch up with you one day.”
Mackey joined Pulp back in 1989, first contributing to their third studio album Separations. He continued to be a part of the iconic Sheffield band for their most successful releases.
Last October, it was announced that Mackey wouldn’t be joining the band for their 2023 reunion tour. Taking to Instagram, he stated:
“I’ve decided to continue the work I’m engaged in – music, filmmaking and photography projects, and will not be joining them for these UK shows just announced.”
He continued, “wishing Candy, Nick, Mark and Jarvis the very best with forthcoming performances in the UK and also an enormous thanks to Pulp’s amazing fanbase, many of whom have sent me lovely messages today.”