ADAM SCHLESINGER,
1967-2020
Adam Schlesinger, songwriter and bassist/guitarist of indie-pop bands Fountains of Wayne and Ivy, died on April 1 due to complications of coronavirus. He was 52.
Schlesinger had reportedly been "very sick and heavily sedated," according to his longtime attorney Josh Grier on 3/31. Following testing positive for the virus, Schlesinger had been in an upstate NY hospital for more than a week, and his condition was thought to be improving, Grier had said at that time.
The prolific songwriter had won three Emmys and a Grammy, and was nominated for an Oscar for "That Thing You Do," the title track from the 1996 film directed by Tom Hanks. Fountains of Wayne's biggest hit was "Stacey's Mom" in 2003.
Many artists and entertainers are sharing their condolences and memories following the news of Schlesinger's passing.
I am very sorry to hear the terrible news about Adam Schlesinger. I had the pleasure of working with Adam when he wrote the theme to Crank Yankers. He was a kind and super-talented man who will be missed. Sending love to his family, friends and fans.
— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) April 1, 2020
There would be no Playtone without Adam Schlesinger, without his That Thing You Do! He was a One-der. Lost him to Covid-19. Terribly sad today. Hanx
— Tom Hanks (@tomhanks) April 2, 2020
For those of you who know my life as a songwriter- Adam Schlesinger’s career was always a big source of inspiration for me. He had a lyrical cheekiness that was only matched by his expert understanding of form, and was always able to fuse the two in a really fun, accessible way..
— Darren Criss (@DarrenCriss) April 1, 2020
adam schlesinger took pop music writing to its classiest and most untouchable place. an honor to live at the same time he made his work.
— jackantonoff (@jackantonoff) April 1, 2020
I am grasping for the right words. My dear friend Adam Schlesinger has passed away from COVID-19. You know him best through his music. From his band @fountainsofwayn to the countless movies and tv shows he scored, most recently My Crazy Ex Girlfriend (cont’d) pic.twitter.com/to8H4IoLtj
— Dashboard Confessional (@dashboardmusic) April 1, 2020
Fuck. The world is suddenly a much shittier place without Adam Schlesinger in it. RIP pal. October 31, 1967-April 1, 2020
— Counting Crows (@CountingCrows) April 2, 2020
“What else is new?
What can I do?
But sing this valley winter song
I wrote for you” - Fountains of Wayne 2003
