The music world is mourning the loss of Kim Shattuck, the former Muffs lead singer, who passed away yesterday after a two year battle with ALS at the age of 56. Musical artists such as Damian Abraham, of Fucked Up, A.C. Newman of The New Pornographers, the bands Silversun Pickups and Veruca Salt, along with media personalities Nardwuar and Patton Oswalt all expressed condolences on Twiiter, as they remembered the punk icon.
The performer was remembered thanks to her iconic voice, and her place as a pioneering musician within the punk scene. While the artist began her career as a member of the Muffs in 1991, she began her career with another band called the Pandoras in 1985. The performer also began another band called The Coolies, with The Muffs bandmate Melanie Vammen earlier this year.
The Pixies, who temporarily hired Shattuck to fill in for Kim Deal during their European reunion tour in 2013, also remembered the late performer. Shattuck was fired from the band after this tour, however it looks like she bared no ill will, stating upon her departure: “Super disappointed to learn that my time with the Pixies ended today. Amazing experience. Looking forward to focusing my attention back on the Muffs and our upcoming new album. All the best to everyone.”
Artists such as A.C. Newman, Veruca Salt and Damian Abraham focused on her role with The Muffs, and praised her ability as a punk performer. “Heartbroken about Kim. One of the all time greats. How could anyone be such a brilliant pop songwriter, singer, screamer, and such a total punk-rock badass, and be so insanely cute at the same time? No one funnier or cooler. We love you, Kim,” Veruca Salt wrote in their Tweet remembering Shattuck
For Silversun Pickups, this event recalled a moment in their youth when they met the singer at a Toys R Us near Woodland Hills, California. According to their Tweet, the former frontwoman was hosting an event at a nearby Tower Records.
Prolific music journalist Nardwaur, who began his career interviewing prominent musicians in the punk scene, shared a picture of himself and The Muffs, which was taken over two decades ago. According to Narwuar, Shattuck was “A true inspiration.”
Oswalt, kept his Tweet brief, yet his simple message which states “hey death fuck you,” rung true for many fans, who also referenced her ongoing battle with ALS. While the performer may have lost her battle with the disease, The Coolies will be honoring Shattuck by donating 100% of the proceeds from their debut EP to The ALS Association, an organization focused on the research and discovery of stronger treatments, and eventually, a cure for ALS.
Photo Credit: Marv Watson
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