The Pop Group frontman Mark Stewart has died at the age of 62, his label has announced.
The English musician, who founded the group in 1977, died in the early hours of Friday morning, a statement shared by Mute Records said.
‘Mute is deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend, fellow agitator, and creative force of nature, Mark Stewart,’ it read.
Stewart became a pioneer of post-punk and industrial hip-hop after forming The Pop Group alongside John Waddington, Simon Underwood, Gareth Sager, and Bruce Smith.
The band released two albums, Y in 1979, and For How Much Longer Do We Tolerate Mass Murder? in 1980.
The Pop Group split in 1981 before later reuniting in 2010 with Stewart, Gareth, and Bruce for a series of live performances.
Stewart’s last performance with the band was in the ruins of Coventry Cathedral, at the invitation of Terry Hall for Coventry UK City of Culture 2021.
Tributes for the late musician have poured in, with fellow bandmate Gareth saying: ‘I can’t imagine you being anything other than restless but I hope you find some very special peace.’
Record producer Adrian Sherwood added: ‘Thank you my brother. You were the biggest musical influence in my life and our extended family will miss you so so much. Love you forever.’
Fellow musician The Bug wrote on Twitter: ‘Rest in peace Mark Stewart. Broken to read this news.
‘Mark was a friend I valued as both inspiration, comedian and troublemaker. Big hearted as possible, 101% committed to the next thing.
‘Original in every way, his spirit live will live on, but I miss him already.’
Another wrote: ‘So sad to hear of the passing of Mark Stewart. The Pop group were a massive influence on us, and when I finally met him a few years ago he was a warm and gentle soul with a great sense of mischief and fun. My best wishes to his family and friends ❤️’
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