Legendary Bassist Fred Smith of Television Passes Away at 77
Rock music lost a vital piece when the news broke that Fred Smith, the iconic bass player for the influential band Television, had passed away at the age of 77. The musician's untimely departure has sent shockwaves through the music world, leaving behind an enduring legacy and countless fans.
Smith's journey in music began as the original bassist for Angel and the Snake, which later morphed into Blondie. He joined Television in 1975, replacing Richard Hell, and remained a core member until their split in 1978. His work on albums like 'Marquee Moon' and 'Adventure' remains an integral part of the band's discography.
Following Television's breakup, Smith contributed to solo projects by his fellow bandmates Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd, as well as collaborations with other artists such as The Roches, Willie Nile, Peregrins, and The Revelons. This versatility showcased Smith's skill as a musician who could seamlessly transition between different styles.
In 1992, Television reunited for the release of their self-titled album, with Smith rejoining the band and performing alongside them throughout the 2000s. His contributions to the reunion tours were met with critical acclaim and left an indelible mark on the music world.
Jimmy Rip, a fellow member of Television, paid tribute to Smith by describing him as "not only my bandmate for 46 years — he was my true friend." Rip recalled Smith's dry wit, subtle sense of humor, and exceptional musicianship, which left audiences wanting more. The musician's influence on the melodic bass lines and counterpoint was unparalleled, making him a natural and essential component of any musical ensemble.
As news of Smith's passing spread, fans around the world were filled with sadness. Rip expressed his emotions, stating that he would miss Smith more than anyone could imagine. The reunion plans to perform by frontman Tom Verlaine this year never materialized, leaving only memories of a musician who left an enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
In the end, Fred Smith's untimely departure serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on an entire genre. His contributions to Television and his collaborations with other artists will forever be etched in music history.
Rock music lost a vital piece when the news broke that Fred Smith, the iconic bass player for the influential band Television, had passed away at the age of 77. The musician's untimely departure has sent shockwaves through the music world, leaving behind an enduring legacy and countless fans.
Smith's journey in music began as the original bassist for Angel and the Snake, which later morphed into Blondie. He joined Television in 1975, replacing Richard Hell, and remained a core member until their split in 1978. His work on albums like 'Marquee Moon' and 'Adventure' remains an integral part of the band's discography.
Following Television's breakup, Smith contributed to solo projects by his fellow bandmates Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd, as well as collaborations with other artists such as The Roches, Willie Nile, Peregrins, and The Revelons. This versatility showcased Smith's skill as a musician who could seamlessly transition between different styles.
In 1992, Television reunited for the release of their self-titled album, with Smith rejoining the band and performing alongside them throughout the 2000s. His contributions to the reunion tours were met with critical acclaim and left an indelible mark on the music world.
Jimmy Rip, a fellow member of Television, paid tribute to Smith by describing him as "not only my bandmate for 46 years — he was my true friend." Rip recalled Smith's dry wit, subtle sense of humor, and exceptional musicianship, which left audiences wanting more. The musician's influence on the melodic bass lines and counterpoint was unparalleled, making him a natural and essential component of any musical ensemble.
As news of Smith's passing spread, fans around the world were filled with sadness. Rip expressed his emotions, stating that he would miss Smith more than anyone could imagine. The reunion plans to perform by frontman Tom Verlaine this year never materialized, leaving only memories of a musician who left an enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
In the end, Fred Smith's untimely departure serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on an entire genre. His contributions to Television and his collaborations with other artists will forever be etched in music history.
77 is old, but he was still going strong last year i remember watching those reunion shows he brought so much energy to the stage, even when it was just him and Tom Verlaine playing together i loved his dry wit too, always seemed like a laid back guy, but with that sharp mind that could take on any song and make it his own. now we'll have to see what other projects the rest of Television will come up with... hopefully they can keep his spirit alive
I'm still trying to process the news... 77 is way too young for someone who's left such an indelible mark on rock music 
. Fred Smith was more than just a bassist, he was a master of creating those infectious melodies that made you wanna dance and sing along 
. His legacy will live on through the countless fans he inspired and the iconic albums he contributed to - Marquee Moon and Adventure are still staples in many rock music collections 
.
. But I'm grateful for the memories we do have of his work and the impact he had on the music world 
. It's clear that Fred Smith was a true musician's musician, respected by his peers and admired by fans worldwide 
just heard about Fred Smith passin away at 77... what a legend, mate! I mean, the guy was like a guitar to his music, ya know? 
Always bringin' that depth, that magic to every song he played on with Television and all those other bands. Marquee Moon is still one of my fave albums ever... 
I mean, the man could play that bass like nobody's business 
and bring out these infectious hooks that still get stuck in your head today 
Marquee Moon is still one of my all-time faves, and it's a testament to Smith's genius 
RIP Fred, you will be deeply missed by so many people around the world 
#RIPFredSmith #TelevisionForever #BassLegend #RockMusicLivesOn 
. His bass lines were like nothing anyone else could do at the time - it's crazy to think about how influential he was on rock music. RIP Fred 
he was such a huge part of television's sound and energy, and his legacy lives on through their iconic albums like marquee moon and adventure 
i feel bad for jimmy rip and the rest of the band who have to keep moving forward without him 
fred smith might not be with us physically anymore, but his music will continue to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and fans 
it's amazing how one person can shape an entire genre, and that's something we can all learn from... be it in our personal or professional lives, we all have that one person who makes a difference, so let's cherish those relationships and appreciate the impact they have on our world 
. for fans like me, it's not just about the music, it's about the memories and experiences we shared through his work 
. I mean, I've seen people live way longer than that in nursing homes with no talent whatsoever 
. I mean, have you seen some of those reunion tour pics? Like, was it even really his dry wit and sense of humor or was that just Tom Verlaine Photoshopping it in 
, he was like a pillar for the whole rock scene back in the day. I mean, the guy played on some of the most iconic albums ever made with Television - 'Marquee Moon' is still one of my faves to this day 
. his passing is definitely going to be felt by fans of rock music everywhere