British musician Steve Mackey is dead. The bassist for the band Pulp was only 56 years old, his wife Katie and former bandmate Jarvis Cocker confirm. He died on March 2nd.

"After three months in hospital fighting with all his strength and determination, we are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye to my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey," Mackey's wife wrote in a statement on Instagram . "Steve was the most talented man I knew - an extraordinary musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker." She also thanks all the hospital staff who tirelessly looked after her husband.

Steve Mackey joined the British band Pulp in the late 1980s, one of the best-known representatives of Britpop. Songs like "Disco 2000" and "Common People" are among the biggest hits of the group. Frontman Cocker also spoke on Instagram. "Our beloved friend and bass player Steve Mackey passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones," the post reads.

Cocker also published a photo showing Mackey on a mountain hike. It was created when Pulp toured South America in 2012. On a day off, the bassist suggested going hiking in the Andes, which the band did. "It was a completely magical experience. Far more magical than staring at the wall of a hotel room all day (which I probably would have done otherwise)," continues Cocker. "We would like to imagine that he is now back in those mountains, on the next leg of his adventure. Have a safe journey, Steve. We hope to catch up with you one day."