World Party musician Karl Wallinger has died. He was 66.
The Welsh-born frontman, whose real name was Karl Edmond De Vere Wallinger, died on Sunday, March 10. His publicist confirmed the saddening news in a statement, per Variety.
What Was Karl Wallinger's Cause of Death?
World Party's official Facebook page delivered the same news to its followers, honoring the musician who left behind a "loving family."
Fans left heartfelt messages in the post's comments section as they paid tribute to Wallinger and honored his legacy.
One wrote, "Really is such sad news. Such a talent, inspiration and caring, really embraced the world with loving arms. Very much missed xx."
"Sad sad news, my hero. What a musical legacy he leaves us. Thanks for the best gig Karl xxx," a second commented.
RIP Karl Wallinger. Such a special songwriter. Here are World Party performing Put the Message in the Box at the MTV awards in 1990 pic.twitter.com/TOR3kdFVgL
— Birmingham 81 (@Birmingham_81) March 11, 2024
"I'm in tears heartbroken. My prayers for Karl's family and his transition. I had the honor of knowing him and working with him," a third user wrote. "No kinder funnier or smarter man I have met. Incredible songwriter singer producer musician. I know Karl's music will live forever."
No cause of death was given, but multiple media outlets confirmed he suffered a brain aneurysm in 2001 that caused him to pause his career for years before returning to the spotlight.
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Remembering Karl Wallinger
Wallinger was famous for forming the World Party in 1986 after his departure from the Waterboys. He recorded the band's debut album, "Private Revolution," at home before releasing it the following year.
The material immediately savored success with its hit single, "Ship of Fools."
World Party's popularity grew further when it released four more albums until the 2000s - before Wallinger took a break due to his illness.
The bandmates got back to work in 2006 and continued performing through 2015. He released his final album, "Big Blue Ball," in 2008.
"On this album there's lots of different kinds of music...It's not really one genre that has been one of our problems, actually; we've never been able to be marketed to any particular audience. It's just music really," he said of the band's 2012 album, "Arkeology."
Seven years later, Wallinger revealed in an interview that they reformed and were preparing to tour.
Wallinger is survived by his wife, Suzie Zamit, and their two children and two grandchildren.
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