Steve Mackey dead: Pulp bassist passes away aged 56

The longtime bassist of legendary Britpop band Pulp has tragically died after a secret health struggle that saw him hospitalised for months.

Musicians Steve Mackey and Jarvis Cocker in 2014. Picture: Mindy Best/Getty Images for SXSW

Pulp bassist Steve Mackey has died aged 56 with his fellow bandmates paying tribute to their “beloved friend”.

Mackey passed away after a three-month health battle in hospital, the band revealed on social media on Thursday.

His wife Katie Grand has also shared a tribute to the “most talented man”.

Mackey’s cause of death has not yet been given, reports The Sun.

Britpop legends Pulp shot to fame in the early ’90s fronted by lead singer Jarvis Cocker.

In a Twitter post, Pulp said: “Our beloved friend and bass player Steve Mackey passed away this morning.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Safe travels, Steve.

“We hope to catch up with you one day. All our love xx.”

Jarvis Cocker and Steve Mackey perform onstage at Glastonbury. Picture: Mick Hutson/Redferns

Mackey (left) announced last year he wouldn’t be joining Cocker (right) and the rest of the band for their reunion. Picture: Mindy Best/Getty Images for SXSW

Mackey joined Pulp in 1989, and played his part in their third album Separations.

The bassist went on to play on all their subsequent studio albums, including Different Class and His ’n’ Hers which are seen as high points in the mid-90s Britpop scene.

The band went on a hiatus in 2002 but came back together to perform across the world in 2011 and 2012.

The band won the award for Outstanding Song Collection during the Ivor Novello Music Awards in 2017. Picture: Alamy

Pulp are set to hit the stage for a reunion tour this year, but Mackey revealed in October that he would not be joining the others.

In a post shared to Instagram, the musician explained: “I’ve decided to continue the work I’m engaged in – music, filmmaking and photography projects, and will not be joining them for these UK shows just announced.

“Wishing Candy, Nick, Mark and Jarvis the very best with forthcoming performances in the UK and also an enormous thanks to Pulp’s amazing fanbase, many of whom have sent me lovely messages today.”

Katie Grand, pictured here with her husband, paid tribute to him. Picture: David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images

The 56-year-old’s wife Katie Grand shared a heartwrenching tribute on Thursday.

She said her husband, who battled with his health for years, was adored by everyone.

“After three months in hospital, fighting with all his strength and determination, we are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye to my brilliant, beautiful husband Steve Mackey,” she wrote.

“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.”

This article originally appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission

Originally published as Steve Mackey dead: Pulp bassist passes away aged 56