R.I.P to Steve Harwell, Lead Singer of Smash Mouth

We lost a legend today folks, one of the founding members of one of the most popular bands of the early 2000's has passed on. All-Star was the #1 most memorable song from Smash Mouth and I won't hear of anything else. Shrek was the movie that saved an entire animation studio and that song starts the whole movie. I feel that without that song, that whole movie may be a little worse. That movie spawned countless sequels and so many other beloved animated movies from that studio, how can you not think that All-Star is #1. I can even hear it now in my head as I write this, just the beat is enough to get you going.

Steve Harwell was born on January 9, 1967, in Santa Clara, California. He would go on to become the face and voice of Smash Mouth, a band that burst onto the scene in the late 1990s with their debut album, "Fush Yu Mang." The album featured the infectious single "Walking on the Sun," which blended elements of rock, pop, and ska and quickly became a radio sensation. With Harwell's distinctive raspy voice and charismatic stage presence, Smash Mouth was poised for stardom. The band's breakthrough came in 1999 with the release of their second album, "Astro Lounge." The album featured the mega-hit "All Star," which not only dominated the charts but also became an anthem for a generation. The catchy tune and Harwell's unmistakable vocals made it a cultural phenomenon, and the song's inclusion in the soundtrack of the animated film "Shrek" further solidified its place in pop culture history. While "All Star" was undoubtedly their most famous song, Smash Mouth continued to release a string of hits throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, including "Then the Morning Comes," "I'm a Believer" (another "Shrek" soundtrack hit), and "Can't Get Enough of You Baby." Harwell's energetic performances and the band's catchy, feel-good sound endeared them to fans of all ages. Steve Harwell was not only known for his music but also for his larger-than-life personality. He embraced the spotlight and had a sense of humor that endeared him to fans and fellow musicians alike. His willingness to have fun and not take himself too seriously was a refreshing quality in the often serious world of rock music. Harwell's presence extended beyond the stage and studio. He appeared on various television shows, including reality series like "The Surreal Life" and "Celebrity Big Brother," further showcasing his charismatic and entertaining persona. In recent years, Steve Harwell faced health challenges that led to changes in his appearance and vocal abilities. These challenges were met with both concern and support from fans and the music community. Despite these struggles, Harwell continued to perform and connect with his devoted fanbase, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to his craft. Steve Harwell's passing marks the end of an era in rock music. His distinctive voice and Smash Mouth's catchy tunes continue to be enjoyed by fans old and new, and their music will undoubtedly live on for generations to come. Harwell's legacy is not only in the songs he sang but also in the joy and memories he brought to countless people through his music. Steve Harwell's life was a testament to the power of music to bring joy, create memories, and unite people. His contribution to the world of rock music and pop culture will be remembered and celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike. As we bid farewell to this rock legend, let us continue to crank up the volume on Smash Mouth's hits, singing along to the tunes that defined an era and continue to bring smiles to our faces. Steve Harwell may be gone, but his music and spirit will live on forever.

I guess the years do stop coming, R.I.P Steve