A songwriter ang Guitarist.
Tom Verlaine, the frontman, songwriter and guitarist of the legendary American band ‘Television,’ has passed away at the age of 73. The news was confirmed by Jesse Paris Smith, daughter of Verlaine’s peer and former partner Patti Smith. According to reports, Verlaine died after a brief illness.
Tom Verlaine – Bio
Verlaine was born as Thomas Miller in Denville, New Jersey and began playing the piano at a young age. He was inspired to switch to the saxophone after hearing a record by Stan Getz, and eventually took on the stage name “Tom Verlaine” as a tribute to French symbolist poet Paul Verlaine. It was after hearing the Rolling Stones’ 1966 hit “19th Nervous Breakdown” that Verlaine picked up the guitar and began his journey as a songwriter.
Skill – Tom Verlaine
Verlaine was considered one of the most skilled musicians to emerge from the now-defunct CBGBs club in New York’s Bowery, along with contemporaries such as Blondie, The Ramones, and Talking Heads. Despite critical acclaim for their album “Marquee Moon,” Television was only a minor commercial success.
After the split of Television, Verlaine released a dozen solo albums, with his song “Kingdom Come” inspiring a rare cover version by David Bowie on his “Scary Monsters” album.
Tributes – Tom Verlaine
Tributes have poured in on social networks from fellow artists, remembering Verlaine as a true legend of rock music. Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth tweeted, “Gonna miss you, Tom. TV Rest In Peace,” while Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers tweeted that he listened to “Marquee Moon” 1,000 times and “will listen 1,000 more.” Stuart Braithwaite of Mogwai tweeted, “His role in our culture and straight-up awesomeness on the electric guitar was completely legendary.”
Verlaine’s music and influence will continue to live on, leaving a lasting impact on the rock music industry. May he rest in peace.
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