Cockney Rebel frontman Steve Harley has died “peacefully at home” at the age of 73, his family has announced.
The band were best known for their hit Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me), which went to number one in the UK charts in 1975.
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A statement from his daughter Greta said: “We are devastated to announce that our wonderful husband and father has passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side.
“The birdsong from his woodland that he loved so much was singing for him. His home has been filled with the sounds and laughter of his four grandchildren.
“Stephen. Steve. Dad. Grandar. Steve Harley. Whoever you know him as, his heart exuded only core elements. Passion, kindness, generosity. And much more, in abundance.
“We know he will be desperately missed by people all over the world, and we ask that you respectfully allow us privacy to grieve.”
Singer-songwriter Mike Batt, who worked with Steve Harley on many songs, has described the musician as a “dear pal” and “lovely guy” following the death of the Cockney Rebel frontman.
Batt and Harley worked together on tracks including Ballerina (Prima Donna) released in 1983 and they were joined by Yes lead singer Jon Anderson for the 1988 charity single Whatever You Believe.
“Oh no! My dear pal, Steve Harley has died,” Batt posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Oh no! My dear pal, Steve Harley has died. I just found out on Twitter. I was just writing about him yesterday in my autobiography. What a talent. What a character. What a lovely guy. My condolences to Dorothy and all. RIP, mate. Will write more soon 😢
— Mike Batt LVO (@Mike_Batt) March 17, 2024
“I just found out on Twitter. I was just writing about him yesterday in my autobiography.
“What a talent. What a character. What a lovely guy. My condolences to Dorothy and all. RIP, mate. Will write more soon.”
Source: Press Association
