Pat DiNizio, founder and lead singer of New Jersey rock band The Smithereens, has died at the age of 62, the band has announced. The cause of death is as yet unknown.
The Smithereens formed in Carteret, New Jersey in 1980 and were regarded as an influential group in the Garden State, scoring two alternative radio hits with Only a Memory in 1988 and A Girl Like You in 1989. The news comes as a shock to Smithereens fans as the band had just announced they were about to head out on a tour in January.
The group was forced to cancel three tour dates earlier this fall after the singer sustained injuries from a fall in his home in September. When fans expressed concern on his Facebook page, he calmed fears writing "Reports of my demise have been greatly exaggerated! Trust me, I am not on my deathbed or anywhere near it."
DiNizio was previously injured in 2013 after slipping on ice outside of his home. The injury required surgery to repair damage to his nerves in his right arm and hand, preventing him from being able to play the guitar.
Smithereens drummer Dennis Diken honoured his friend with a touching post on his Facebook page, remember how the songwriter had the "magic touch" with "hook-laden three minute pop songs".
Shortly after the band posted the news, several radio personalities and musicians expressed their grief on social media.
