Andy Rourke, bassist for the legendary British band The Smiths, has died at the age of 59.

His former bandmate Johnny Marr announced Friday that Rourke had died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

Rourke and Marr joined up with drummer Mike Joyce and singer Stephen Patrick Morrissey to form The Smiths in the early 80’s.  While they lasted just six years, they’re considered one of the most influential British bands of their era.

Guitarist Johnny Marr: “Watching him play those dazzling basslines was an absolute privilege and genuinely something to behold… Andy reinvented what it is to be a bass guitar player.“

Drummer Mike Joyce: “Not only the most talented bass player I’ve ever had the privilege to play with but the sweetest, funniest lad I’ve ever met.“

Morrissey, Lead Singer: “He will never die as long as his music is heard.“