Deaths on April 20

Steve Marriott, English singer-songwriter and producer (b. 1947)

Stephen Peter Marriott, born on January 30, 1947, was a formidable English musician, a captivating songwriter, and the dynamic frontman and guitarist for two highly influential rock bands: Small Faces and Humble Pie. His remarkable career spanned over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the British music scene and beyond. Marriott's distinctive voice and electrifying stage presence cemented his status as a true rock and roll legend, a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike.

The Mod Icon and the Small Faces Era

In mid-1960s Britain, Steve Marriott emerged as a quintessential figure of the burgeoning mod subculture. His sharp style, confident swagger, and undeniable talent quickly made him a popular and frequently photographed style icon, perfectly embodying the mod ethos of sophistication, rebellion, and a love for sharp R&B-infused rock. As a co-founder of the Small Faces in 1965, alongside Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston (later Ian McLagan), Marriott fronted a band that became synonymous with the mod movement. Their music, characterized by its soulful vocals, punchy rhythms, and psychedelic flourishes, produced a string of hits, earning them a devoted following. The band's initial successful run lasted until 1968, though they would briefly reunite from 1975 to 1978. Small Faces were celebrated for their innovative sound, a blend of rhythm and blues, pop, and rock that perfectly captured the spirit of Swinging London. Marriott's profound impact with Small Faces was posthumously recognized in 2012 when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the band.

The Hard Rock Evolution with Humble Pie

Following his departure from Small Faces, Marriott embarked on a new musical journey, co-founding Humble Pie in 1969 with Peter Frampton, Greg Ridley, and Jerry Shirley. This venture marked a significant shift in his musical direction, moving towards a heavier, more blues-rock and hard rock sound, which showcased his raw, powerful vocals and fiery guitar work in a different context. Humble Pie quickly gained international recognition, particularly in the United States, for their energetic live performances and gritty albums. The band enjoyed considerable success throughout the early to mid-1970s, establishing Marriott as a versatile artist capable of thriving in diverse musical landscapes. Humble Pie’s primary run lasted until 1975, with a later revival from 1979 to 1983.

A Musician's Soul: Roots, Influences, and Disillusionment

From an early age, Marriott's musical sensibilities were profoundly shaped by a diverse pantheon of heroes, whose influences he masterfully wove into his own unique style. Artists such as the jazz visionary Miles Davis, rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly, the iconic Booker T & the MG's, the legendary Ray Charles, soul giant Otis Redding, blues master Muddy Waters, and the influential Bobby Bland all contributed to the rich tapestry of his musical foundation. This eclectic mix of jazz, R&B, soul, and blues provided the bedrock for his powerful, emotive vocals and distinctive guitar playing. However, despite his immense talent and achievements, Marriott eventually grew disillusioned with the commercial machinery of the mainstream music industry. He increasingly shunned the big record companies and the pressures that came with them, choosing to embrace a path of relative obscurity. This led him back to his musical roots, where he found solace and authenticity performing in the intimate settings of pubs and clubs across London and his home county of Essex, reconnecting directly with his audience and his passion for pure, unadulterated music.

A Tragic End and an Enduring Legacy

Tragically, Steve Marriott's life was cut short on April 20, 1991. A devastating fire, believed to have been caused by a cigarette, engulfed his historic 16th-century home in Arkesden, Essex, claiming his life. His untimely passing sent shockwaves through the music world, but his legacy only continued to grow in the years that followed. In 1996, five years after his death, Marriott was posthumously honoured with an Ivor Novello Award for his Outstanding Contribution to British Music, a testament to his profound and lasting impact. His vocal prowess also received widespread critical acclaim, with Mojo magazine listing him as one of the top 100 greatest singers of all time. Peer recognition further underscored his exceptional talent; Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne famously declared Marriott the fourth greatest singer ever, while Clem Burke of Blondie ranked him sixteenth. Paul Stanley of Kiss lauded Marriott as "unbelievable" and a personal hero, and Steve Perry of Journey affectionately named him one of his absolute favourite singers. These heartfelt tributes from his contemporaries solidify Steve Marriott's place as one of rock music's truly irreplaceable voices and an artist whose influence continues to resonate through generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steve Marriott

What bands was Steve Marriott a part of?

Steve Marriott was the frontman and guitarist for two highly influential rock bands: Small Faces (active from 1965–1968 and 1975–1978) and Humble Pie (active from 1969–1975 and 1979–1983).

When was Steve Marriott inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012 as a member of Small Faces.

What was Steve Marriott's musical style?

Marriott's style was incredibly versatile. With Small Faces, he was a key figure in the mod sound, blending rhythm and blues, pop, and psychedelic rock. With Humble Pie, he shifted to a heavier blues-rock and hard rock sound. His music was deeply influenced by soul, R&B, blues, and jazz artists.

How did Steve Marriott die?

Steve Marriott died on April 20, 1991, in a fire at his 16th-century home in Arkesden, Essex. The fire was thought to have been caused by a cigarette.

What posthumous awards and recognition did Steve Marriott receive?

Marriott received an Ivor Novello Award in 1996 for his Outstanding Contribution to British Music. He was also listed by Mojo as one of the top 100 greatest singers of all time, and was highly praised by fellow musicians such as Ozzy Osbourne, Clem Burke, Paul Stanley, and Steve Perry.