by
Stephen Chapman
Pulp have led tributes to their “beloved friend and bass player’ Steve Mackey, who died this morning.
The 56 year old joined the Sheffield band in 1987 and was part of their era-defining Britpop sound. He was also a producer, working with bands including The Kills, Cornership, M.I.A. and co-wrote tracks on Florence + the Machine’s debut album.
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Our beloved friend & bass player Steve Mackey passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with his family & loved ones. Safe travels, Steve.
We hope to catch up with you one day. All our love xx pic.twitter.com/pickNV56Nl— Pulp (@welovepulp) March 2, 2023
His wife, Katie said that he had spent the last 3 months in hospital “fighting with all his strength and determination.”
She added:
“Steve died today, a loss which has left myself, his son Marley, parents Kath and Paul, sister Michelle and many friends all heartbroken. Steve was the most talented man I knew, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker.
“As in life, he was adored by everyone whose paths he crossed in the multiple creative disciplines he conquered. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the NHS staff who worked tirelessly for Steve. He will be missed beyond words.”
Pulp was a huge part of his career and he was awarded an Ivor Novello along with the other members of Pulp for their “Outstanding Song Collection.”
Away from music, he was a film-maker and photographer, working on advertising for brands including Miu Miu, Gucci, Armani, Marc Jacobs, Givenchy and Marc Jacobs.
He also worked on film projects for Hot Chip, Peaches, Sleaford Mods, Jockstrap, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Sworn Virgins, Gaika and Oliver Coates.
‘And tell me when the spaceship lands ’cause all this has just got to mean something’
Steve Mackey pic.twitter.com/4MYlReMZwz
— Massive Attack (@MassiveAttackUK) March 2, 2023
We are incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of Steve Mackey, legendary bassist of Pulp and established producer in his own right. A camaraderie that translated into their brilliant music. Our thoughts are with the band, his family and friends. RIP Steve. pic.twitter.com/ALAC9CU7H1 — Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) March 2, 2023
[Photo:Rough Trade]
