Pete Shelley Dead: Buzzcocks Singer Dies, Aged 63
Buzzcocks frontman Pete Shelley has died, at the age of 63.
According to the band’s management, Pete died on Thursday in Estonia, where he had been living since 2012.
They said, in an official statement: “It’s with great sadness that we confirm the death of Pete Shelley, one of the UK’s most influential and prolific songwriters and co-founder of the seminal original punk band Buzzcocks.
“Pete’s music has inspired generations of musicians over a career that spanned five decades and with his band and as a solo artist, he was held in the highest regard by the music industry and by his fans around the world.”
The singer’s brother later confirmed on his Facebook page that Pete had died after suffering a heart attack.
Buzzcocks formed in Manchester in the 1970s, and eventually found themselves at the forefront of the punk music movement, thanks to the success of songs like ‘Ever Fallen In Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)’, their staple track, and ‘Promises’.
Since the news of his death was made public, those who knew and were inspired by Pete have been posting tributes on social media:
Pete Shelley wrote perfect three minute pop songs. The soundtrack to being a teenager. You’ll be missed Pete but you’ll be remembered for a long long time for your brilliant music https://t.co/bt03fGbcgd
— Tim Burgess (@Tim_Burgess) December 6, 2018
Oh God but I loved Buzzcocks. And Pete Shelley was an amazing songwriter. "But after all life's only death's recompense." RIP ♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/vAAg7Jui52
— Tracey Thorn (@tracey_thorn) December 6, 2018
RIP Pete Shelley pic.twitter.com/l634wdn1gH
— PIXIES (@PIXIES) December 7, 2018
Pete Shelley - a true gent!
He helped us so much at the start of our career out of a sheer love for all things punk. Without Pete & the Buzzcocks I would probably still be working at the Docks. RIP mate. X— Peter Hook (@peterhook) December 6, 2018
not been on here for a while, but I can't not mark the passing of Pete Shelley. I love(d) Buzzcocks. His songs were important to me when I was a young man and they still are to me now. Thank you Pete and R.I.P. You will be missed.
— Norman Blake (@normanblake) December 6, 2018
Part of my youth dies with him. https://t.co/gKpkmScCvc RIP Pete Shelley https://t.co/TsB6QLk2JI
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) December 6, 2018
Damn. Pete Shelley gone. The Buzzcocks were and are a favorite of mine, and I was fortunate to be able to hang with Pete a few times and tell him so. R.I.P., Pete. #Buzzcocks
— Mike Mills (@m_millsey) December 6, 2018
Saw Pete Shelley with the Buzzcocks in August ‘76 supporting the Clash and the Pistols. First punk band I ever heard/saw and that night they helped to change my life. Pete was one of Britain’s best pure pop writers, up there with Ray Davies. To young to go. So very sad. pic.twitter.com/5HfzUvM5X4
— Gary Kemp (@garyjkemp) December 6, 2018
Rest In Peace Pete Shelley . As a lifelong @Buzzcocks fan...I so appreciate the musical influence Pete. Condolences to your family....
— Duff McKagan (@DuffMcKagan) December 6, 2018
In addition to his work with Buzzcocks, Pete also released solo material in the 1980s, when the band was on their eight-year hiatus.
They eventually reformed in 1989 and have continued to perform together, releasing their most recent album, and ninth overall, ‘The Way’, back in 2014.
Pete is survived by his wife, Greta, and his son.
Listen to ’Every Fallen In Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)′ below:
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