Smash Mouth lead singer Steve Harwell dies aged 56

"He was surrounded by family and friends and passed peacefully and comfortably."

Steve Harwell has died at the age of 56.

The music star was best known as the frontman of rock band Smash Mouth and was the voice behind hits such as 'All Star' but passed away on Monday (04.09.23) just one day after it was reported that he had a "short time" left to live.

Without revealing a cause of death, a representative told E! News: "Steve Harwell passed away this morning September 4, 2023 at his home in Boise Idaho. He was surrounded by family and friends and passed peacefully and comfortably."

The rock singer battled alcohol addiction over the years and had suffered liver failure, so just hours before his death was announced, it was claimed that just he was living in a hospice and that his fiancée had been caring for him alongside the hospice staff.

Steve's manager told TMZ: "Although Steve is here with us still, sadly it will only be for a short time.

"We would hope that people would respect Steve and his family's privacy during this difficult time."

This morning (September 5), Smash Mouth's official Instagram posted a tribute to the late singer.

"Steve Harwell was a true American Original," the post wrote.

"A larger than life character who shot up into the sky like a Roman candle. Steve should be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom.

And the fact that he achieved this near-impossible goal with very limited musical experience makes his accomplishments all the more remarkable. His only tools were his irrepressible charm and charisma, his fearlessly reckless ambition, and his king-size cajones.

Steve lived a 100% full-throttle life. Burning brightly across the universe before burning out. Good night Heevo Veev.

Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the stars, and magically hit your target."

The rocker retired from the band in October 2021 due to his poor health.

His spokesperson said at the time: "Despite Steve's best efforts to work through these ailments, he is heartbroken to share that it has become impossible for him to continue doing what he loves most, performing in front of the band's millions of fans around the world."

Smash Mouth was formed in 1994, and their other hits include 1997's 'Walkin' on the Sun'.

As well as 'All Star', their rendition of The Monkees' classic 'I'm A Believer' famously featured in 2001's 'Shrek' movie.