Mark Stewart obit

Mark Stewart Of The Pop Group Has Died Aged 62

 One of the key countercultural figures of European post punk, industrial funk and electronic dub has died today

He was not on the list.

Influential post punk musician Mark Stewart, famous for fronting The Pop Group and The Maffia, as well as a lengthy career working with the likes of the New Age Steppers, Tricky and Massive Attack, has died at the age of 62.

The news was confirmed today (April 21) by The Pop Group's Twitter account and by one of his record label, Mute.

The official statement read: "Mark Stewart passed away in early hours of Friday 21 April 2023.

"Mark is in communion with love. As Sufis say; there is no such thing as death, no one is going to die, but since death is so valuable, it has been hidden in the safe of fears.

"Mark's family and friends respectfully ask to be given space at this difficult time."

Former label boss and friend, Daniel Miller of Mute said: "I've known Mark as a friend and a fellow traveller for over 40 years since her was the lead singer of The Pop Group. I have so many wonderful memories of him – some bizarre, some outrageous, but always inspiring and somehow for a reason.

"His musical influence has been much greater than is often acknowledged. He was always encouraging young artists, especially those local to him in Bristol – many have gone on to become global stars.

"His warmth and kindness as a friend has always been something very important to me. We had so many laughs together, and he had so much creative energy. The last time I. saw Mark was a few months ago in Bristol, performing an improvised set with Lee Ranaldo. He was nothing but hilarious, his piece was basically a stand-up routine, and after the show we spent many hours putting the world to rights, it's a wonderful memory, I will miss him greatly.

"Mark, I can't imagine you being anything other than restless but I hope you find your very special peace."

The Pop Group's guitarists/saxophonist Gareth Sager said in tribute: "Mark was the most amazing mind of my generation. RIP."

And his friend at On-U Sound, Adrian Sherwood added: "Thank you my brother. You were the biggest musical influence in my life and our extended family will mis you so much. Love forever."