We have lost another one of the greats, Tom Verlaine. The immensely influential guitarist and songwriter, the founding member and frontman of the New York City rock band Television, passed away at the age of 73. Many names in the industry shared their sadness with the sudden news, including U2’s The Edge.
The guitarist took to Twitter to share a few words about Verlaine and his impact on him as a young musician wanting to make it amongst the big names in the industry. He wrote, “Tom Verlaine was a huge influence on me as a young guitarist.”
The Edge added, “Television showed me how unique the guitar could sound if approached with a spirit of inventiveness. That insight has guided me ever since.” Verlaine’s unhinged playing changed the way alternative music we have come to know, and it’s all thanks to him for thinking outside the box to give the industry a new wave that inspired so many like The Edge. The musician concluded his words with, “Tom was a true legend. His music will live on.”
The heartbreaking news came from Jesse Paris Smith, the daughter of Verlaine’s former partner Patti Smith who confirmed that Verlaine had passed away ‘after a brief illness’ in Manhattan. The ever-so-innovative guitarist will be missed by many in the industry. Yet, he will also be remembered for all his contribution to the genre and for future generations following in his footsteps. Rest in peace, Tom Verlaine.
Tom Verlaine was a huge influence on me as young guitarist. Television showed me how unique the guitar could sound if approached with a spirit of inventiveness. That insight has guided me ever since. Tom was a true legend. His music will live on. The Edge
— U2 (@U2) January 31, 2023
