Mark Hollis, lead singer of Talk Talk, dies at age 64

Hollis was the founder, lead singer and songwriter of Talk Talk

Reports are emerging that Mark Hollis, co-founder of the band Talk Talk, has died at the age of 64.
While no official confirmation has yet been released, the news has been reported via several media outlets and sources close to Hollis. Many are also already paying tribute to the influential musician on social media including the musician’s cousin, Anthony Costello, Paul Webb – his former band mate – and Tim Pope, who directed Talk Talk’s music videos.
The lead singer and primary songwriter of Talk Talk, Hollis co-founded the band in 1981 alongside drummer Lee Harris, bassist Paul Webb and keyboard player Simon Brenner. They had early synth-pop success with singles ‘Talk Talk’, ‘It’s My Life’ and ‘Such a Shame’ together with several critically-acclaimed albums, including ‘Spirit of Eden’ and ‘Laughing Stock.’

After the band disbanded in 1991, Hollis released a well received, self-titled solo album in 1998 before retiring from the music industry. Speaking about his decision not to tour and to maintain a private lifestyle at the time, Hollis said: “I choose for my family. Maybe others are capable of doing it, but I can’t go on tour and be a good dad at the same time.”