Smash Mouth lead singer Steve Harwell has announced he is leaving the band.
The 54-year-old lead singer is retiring from music to deal with his physical and mental health, Harwell’s rep told The New York Post.
The announcement comes after a video from a recent performance went viral showing Harwell reportedly threatening the crowd. A TikTok user, who goes by the name Haley, shared a video from the performance where the singer is seen making crude gestures to the crowd.
“Steve has been dealing with long-term medical issues over the last eight years and during his last performance at the Big Sip stage, he suffered numerous symptoms directly linked with his current medical situation,” the rep said. “As of today, Steve will be retiring from Smash Mouth to focus on his physical and mental health.”
Harwell then released a statement announcing his retirement, thanking his fans and bandmates:
Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being a rock star, performing in front of sold-out arenas and have been so fortunate to live out that dream. To my bandmates, it’s been an honor performing with you all these years and I can’t think of anyone else I would have rather gone on this wild journey with.
To our loyal and amazing fans, thank you, all of this was possible because of you. I’ve tried so hard to power through my physical and mental health issues and to play in front of you one last time, but I just wasn’t able to.
‘I am so grateful to each and every one of you who has helped Smash Mouth sell over 10 million albums worldwide, put us on top of radio charts and those who have kept ‘All Star’ relevant as one of the top memes on the internet today.’
Smash Mouth plans to continue as band without Harwell and is currently seeking a replacement.
Thanks everyone! https://t.co/Vij7GXos1a
— Smash Mouth (@smashmouth) October 13, 2021
Editorial credit: Featureflash Photo Agency