Toby Smith passed away on April 11, 2017, following a six-year battle with cancer.
Details of Toby Smith's Passing
Toby Smith, widely recognized as the founding keyboardist and co-songwriter for the critically acclaimed British funk and acid jazz band, Jamiroquai, died at the age of 46. He had been diagnosed with cancer approximately six years prior to his death, courageously fighting the illness until his passing in 2017.
Here are the key details regarding his passing:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | April 11, 2017 |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Diagnosis Timeline | Diagnosed six years prior to his death |
Toby Smith's Musical Legacy
Smith's significant contributions to music left a lasting impact, particularly within the acid jazz genre.
- Founding Member of Jamiroquai: He was instrumental in the band's formation in 1992, playing a pivotal role in shaping their distinctive sound and contributing to their early success, including their debut album, Emergency on Planet Earth.
- Keyboards and Songwriting: His innovative keyboard work and songwriting prowess were fundamental to the unique sonic identity of Jamiroquai's initial albums, helping them achieve global recognition.
- Departure from the Band: Smith departed from Jamiroquai in 2002, citing family reasons.
His death was widely mourned by fans and peers alike, who acknowledged his profound influence on Jamiroquai's iconic sound and the broader acid jazz scene.
