By Zoe Delaney
Sir Rod Stewart has paid tribute to Steve Harley following the Cockney Rebel frontman passing away at the age of 73.
Harley's family announced earlier today that the late singer had died "peacefully at home", with tributes pouring in from all over the world in the wake of the sad news being made public. Sir Rod - who Harley penned songs for - has said he is "absolutely devastated" to learn of the rocker's death.
In a statement seen by the PA news agency, Maggie May singer said: "Absolutely devastated, words fail me. The Cockney Rebel has left us. Loved you and admired you Steve and always will. Sir Rod Stewart."
Harley became a household name in the 70s as part of the rock band Cockney Rebel, famous for their hit song Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me). He also lent his voice to the title track of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical Phantom Of The Opera. Despite having to cancel tour dates last year due to a battle with a "nasty cancer", Harley remained active in the music scene.
His wife Dorothy and children Kerr and Greta released a heartfelt statement saying he had "passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side". They added: "The birdsong from his woodland that he loved so much was singing for him. His home has been filled with the sounds and laughter of his four grandchildren".
They fondly remembered him as Stephen, Steve, Dad, Grandar, Steve Harley, a man whose heart was full of passion, kindness, and generosity. The grieving family also acknowledged that Harley e would be "desperately missed by people all over the world" as they announced his passing.
In a message on his official website on Christmas Eve, Harley wished his fans a "happy, healthy New Year" and reflected on his 2023, describing it as a tale of two halves. He recalled the first half as "often magical" when he performed on stage in Europe with his band, saying "out there, on the road, that's where I come alive".
The second half of the year was really sad for him because they had to stop doing live shows. He had to get a medical treatment and then rest for a while. He said: "I'm fighting a nasty cancer. My oncologist is pleased with the treatment's effects so far. It's tiresome, and tiring. But the fight is on. And thankfully the cursed intruder is not affecting the voice. I sing and play most evenings."
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