Andy Rourke 1964-2023

This morning, Johnny Marr broke the news that Andy Rourke had passed away following his battle with pancreatic cancer.

Andy was a music legend, the bass player in one of the most important British bands ever. He was up there with Paul McCartney, John Deacon, Peter Hook, Alex James. He was a genius, but unlike the eccentric and eloquent Morrissey and the virtuoso Marr. Rourke often let his work go unnoticed. That does not take away from just how brilliant it was though.

Mirroring Marr's riffs was a brilliant skill in itself, and something Rourke did to brilliant effect. Never forcing his way to the front, just dancing beautifully against his mate's genius. Weaving his bass into the unique tapestry of The Smiths and into some of the most important songs of that era. From echoing the jubilant guitar flow of ‘This Charming Man’, providing atmospheric texture to ‘How Soon Is Now?’ or adding underlying levels of melody to ‘Bigmouth Strikes Again’, ‘William, It Was Really Nothing’ or ‘There Is A Light That Never Goes Out’ Rourke could do it all.

Originally a guitarist, and having played instruments from a young age, Rourke was as equally musically talented as Marr, and would go onto become one of the best bass players ever. He helped write songs for Morrissey after the demise of The Smiths, formed bands with Dolores O’Riordan, formed Freebass with Peter Hook and The Stone Roses’ Mani. 

I'll leave it to his bandmates and friends to describe Andy Rourke.

“Andy will always be remembered, as a kind and beautiful soul by everyone who knew him, and as a supremely gifted musician by people who love music. Well done Andy. We’ll miss you brother.”
Johnny Marr

I am so saddened to hear this news! Andy was a superb musician and a lovely guy. I haven’t been able to read any other news about details yet but I send my deepest condolences and thoughts to his friends and family. RIP”. Stephen Street- The Smiths Producer

Not only the most talented bass player I’ve ever had the privilege to play with but the sweetest, funniest lad I’ve ever met”.
“Andy’s left the building, but his musical legacy is perpetual. I miss you so much already. Forever in my heart mate.” Mike Joyce

“I just hope … wherever Andy has gone … that he’s OK. He will never die as long as his music is heard. He didn’t ever know his own power, and nothing that he played had been played by someone else. His distinction was so terrific and unconventional and he proved it could be done.”

He was also very, very funny and very happy, and post-Smiths, he kept a steady identity – never any manufactured moves. I suppose, at the end of it all, we hope to feel that we were valued. Andy need not worry about that.” Morrissey

The world has lost not only an amazing musician but also an amazing human being. Thank you for the music.