We previously reported that TV On The Radio bassist Gerald Smith had been diagnosed with lung cancer.
Sadly, Gerald lost his battle this week.
"We are very sad to announce the death of our beloved friend and bandmate, Gerard Smith, following a courageous fight against lung cancer", said a statement from the band. "Gerard passed away the morning of April 20th, 2011. We will miss him terribly."
He first joined the band in 2003, after using his creative skills as a flamenco guitarist on the New York City subway, where he was threatened with jail time for busking without a permit.
After joining the band, they released "Return To Cookie Mountain" which featured pop icon David Bowie, who was a keen vocal supporter of the group. The follow-up "Dear Science" was named Album Of The Year by several publications.
Upon Smith's diagnosis soon after recording sessions for the forthcoming album "Nine Types Of Light", the band canceled a series of concerts. At the time, the band warned that with Smith's wilful disposition, "It just might be cancer that has the problem."
We offer our condolences to the band and Gerald's family.
Thanks for the report to Spinner.
TVotR have some really cool songs, looking forward to checking out their new album