TV on the Radio at Bonnaroo

TV on the Radio’s Gerard Smith died of lung cancer earlier today. Smith has played bass, keyboards and assorted other instruments in the group since 2005. He was diagnosed with lung cancer after the group recorded its 2010 studio album Nine Types of Light, which was released last week. Smith sat out the group’s recent shows in New York and was slated to miss TV on the Radio’s summer tour while he received medical attention.

A message from the band reads:

We are very sad to announce the death of our beloved friend and bandmate, following a courageous fight against lung cancer. Gerard passed away the morning of April 20th, 2011. We will miss him terribly.

The following shows will be canceled:

April 20 St. Andrew Halls, Detroit MI
April 22 Metro, Chicago IL
April 23 First Ave, Minneapolis MN
April 24 First Ave, Minneapolis MN
April 26 Ogden, Denver CO
There will be more information as it becomes available.

In addition to his work with TV on the Radio, Smith recorded with artists such as Celebration, Beyondo and Jimmy Cliff. He also worked with the members of Antibalas.