Joe "Joe Bass" Skyward has died of cancer at the age of 57. The musician is most known for his contributions to 1990s alternative rock bands The Posies and Sunny Day Real Estate. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2014, which was one year after he rejoined the Posies after leaving the band in the late '90s to support Sunny Day Real Estate's tour for the reunion album, How it Feels to be Something on. He was featured on the band's live recording and video that was released in 1999, as well as Posies albums Amazing Disgrace and Success.
Skyward also recorded the bass parts for Sunny Day Real Estate singer Jeremy Enigk's solo records World Waits and The Missing Link.
Sunny Day Real Estate's original bassist is Foo Fighters member Nate Mendel, who was clearly busy with Dave Grohl's band, thus allowing for Skyward to join. He played music until his cancer diagnosis.
The official Posies Facebook page shared the announcement of Skyward's passing this week (via Washed Up Emo / Substream Magazine).
"Joe Skyward, aka Joe Bass, left us last night. He had been fighting cancer for the last 2 years," the post, which is accompanied by a photo of Joe in action, stated. "Positive to the end, he went surrounded by friends and family. We had many great years with Joe and loved him very much. We still do. Rest in peace, rest in space, rest in bass. Here pictured onstage with the Posies in Spain in 2014. We will miss you Joe."
Joe Skyward, aka Joe Bass, left us last night. He had been fighting cancer for the last 2 years. Positive to the end, he...
Posted by The Posies on Sunday, March 27, 2016
You can check out the full set from Sunny Day Real Estate's live album and performance right here:
