Spirit of the West frontman John Mann has died at the age of 57. He passed away earlier today at home in Vancouver.
The singer died as a result of early onset Alzheimer's disease. He previously revealed his Alzheimer's diagnosis back in 2014, at which time he had already had the disease for a year.
An announcement revealed that he "passed away peacefully," adding, "Surrounded by friends and loving family until the end, all were reminded of John's rich legacy. He was a potent force in music, acting — onstage, in movies and on television, and was world renowned as a songwriter. As well, he was a foresightful activist and charitable figure for several worthwhile organizations. His work will resound long after his untimely passing."
Spirit of the West played their final shows in Vancouver in April 2016. Towards the end of the band's run, Mann used an iPad to help him remember lyrics.
Founded in 1983 in Vancouver, Spirit of the West were known for their Celtic-influenced folk-rock sound. They released a string of albums between 1984 and 2004, and they're most widely known for the 1990 party anthem "Home for a Rest," as well as the 1993 Cancon radio hit "And If Venice Is Sinking."
Mann was a member of the Order of British Columbia. Outside of music, he had numerous theatre credits. He is survived by his wife Jill Daum and children Harlan and Hattie.
The singer died as a result of early onset Alzheimer's disease. He previously revealed his Alzheimer's diagnosis back in 2014, at which time he had already had the disease for a year.
An announcement revealed that he "passed away peacefully," adding, "Surrounded by friends and loving family until the end, all were reminded of John's rich legacy. He was a potent force in music, acting — onstage, in movies and on television, and was world renowned as a songwriter. As well, he was a foresightful activist and charitable figure for several worthwhile organizations. His work will resound long after his untimely passing."
Spirit of the West played their final shows in Vancouver in April 2016. Towards the end of the band's run, Mann used an iPad to help him remember lyrics.
Founded in 1983 in Vancouver, Spirit of the West were known for their Celtic-influenced folk-rock sound. They released a string of albums between 1984 and 2004, and they're most widely known for the 1990 party anthem "Home for a Rest," as well as the 1993 Cancon radio hit "And If Venice Is Sinking."
Mann was a member of the Order of British Columbia. Outside of music, he had numerous theatre credits. He is survived by his wife Jill Daum and children Harlan and Hattie.
