Toby Smith obit

Original Jamiroquai keyboard player Toby Smith has died aged 46

Smith was a member of the UK band for ten years.

 He was not on the list.

Toby Smith, the original keyboard player for Jamiroquai, has died aged 46.

Jamiroquai fan site Funkin announced the news yesterday (April 12). “It is with great sadness to hear and relay the news that original Jamiroquai keyboard player Toby Smith died on 11th April 2017,” reads the statement.

Smith was an original member of the band from 1992 until 2002 when he left to “spend more time with his family.”

After leaving Jamiroquai, Smith set up Angelic Recording Studio near Banbury, Oxfordshire and became the producer and manager for UK pop band The Hoosiers. In 2013, Smith co-produced X Factor winner Matt Cardle’s third album, Porcelain, as well as providing songwriting contributions.

Original Jamiroquai bassist Stuart Zender paid tribute to his former band mate on Instagram. [via Mixmag]

I love you so much. My big brother Toby crossed over to the other side last night. All my fondest memories are of him and the band that we created. The most talented musician I have ever had the honor to make music with. There will never be another like you Toby. Your light will shine on eternally. Thank you for making mine and everyone's life so bright. I celebrate your love and life! Rest in Love. Your bald brother Stu

Son of John Jeremy ("Jinx") Grafftey-Smith, a merchant banker, and his wife Lucy, Smith was educated at Marlborough College, where he developed his musical skills. His grandfather, Sir Laurence Grafftey-Smith, was a diplomat who served as High Commissioner for the U.K. in Pakistan from 1947 to 1951 and Ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 1945 to 1947.

Smith was married to Gabriella, daughter of David Offley Crewe-Read; they had three children.

While Jay Kay was forming Jamiroquai, he was encouraged by his manager to enlist Smith. Having been with the band since 1992, Smith left Jamiroquai on 29 April 2002 during the Funk Odyssey tour due to family commitments.

He was the music producer and manager for the English pop rock band The Hoosiers. Smith produced the 2009 album Caught in the Headlights for the British band Absent Elk.