Her's record label has paid tribute after the Liverpool duo and their tour manager were killed in a road accident in the US.
The band - Stephen Fitzpatrick and Audun Laading - and tour manager Stephen Fitzpatrick died on Wednesday while travelling to a show in California.
Mick Scholefield, Martin Colclough and Patrick Fogarty from their label, Heist Or Hit, announced the tragic news on the company's Facebook page.
"It is with overwhelming sadness that we regretfully inform you that Liverpool band Her’s, Stephen Fitzpatrick and Audun Laading and their tour manager Trevor Engelbrektson tragically passed away in a road accident in the early hours of Wednesday, 27th March whilst travelling to a show in Santa Ana, California. We are all heartbroken," the statement said.
We have lost our friends and the world has been denied their talent
Mick Scholefield, Martin Colclough & Patrick Fogarty
Heist Or Hit
Having recently released their debut album Invitation To Her’s, the emerging band were on their second tour of North America for a run of 19 sold-out shows and had performed at this month's SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.
"Their energy, vibrancy and talent came to define our label," the statement added. "As humans, they were warm, gentle and hilarious. Each time they stopped by the office made for an uplifting experience.
"Musically, Her’s were astonishing. An aptitude for melody, fun, and entertainment combined with a complexity that was as sophisticated as it was stylish. They were in America playing to thousands of adoring fans.
"The world was at their feet. Everyone here at the label is overwhelmed and distraught. We have lost our friends and the world has been denied their talent."
Tributes have also been posted on Twitter, a selection of which can be read below.
Absolutely devastating news this morning. Her’s unique debut was an Album of the Month, accompanied by some truly wonderful in-stores. Much loved friends of Rough Trade, a very bright future taken away far far too soon. Thoughts with family, friends and fans x
— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) March 29, 2019
Photo: Emma Swann pic.twitter.com/ksF8u24P6q
Totally spun by the Her's news. They played our SXSW showcase two weeks ago. They had so much potential, true originals. Life is so irredeemably short and fragile. And unfair. RIP guys. https://t.co/T3aGZDMuka
— Paul Bridgewater (@paulbridgewater) March 29, 2019
Such bright talent was lost yesterday, but the music you’ve left behind will be cherished forever. Rest easy Stephen Fitzpatrick, Audun Laading and Trevor Engelbrektson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of this vibrant duo and manager. ???? #hers pic.twitter.com/WRILyyG2K4
— Austin Underground (@ATXUnderground) March 29, 2019
We are hearing really sad news about Liverpool band #Hers.
— The Guide Liverpool (@TheGuideLpool) March 28, 2019
It's been reported that the duo who formed in our city, & their tour manager have been killed in a road accident whilst on tour in California.
Our thoughts are with Stephen, Audun & Trevor's family and friends.
???? pic.twitter.com/cvBcjfU1gz
Everyone at Introducing is very sad to hear the devastating news about @ThatBandOfHers and their tour manager. Her's were supported by @Dave_Monks at Intro in Merseyside and their music had been featured across BBC Radio. Our love & thoughts go out to their friends and families. https://t.co/CtTjmP0Fjr
— BBC Music Introducing (@bbcintroducing) March 29, 2019
We’re saddened by the passing of Liverpool band Her’s and their tour manager.
— M&S Bank Arena Liverpool (@MandSBankArena) March 29, 2019
Our thoughts are with Stephen Fitzpatrick, Audun Laading, Trevor Engelbrektson, their families, friends and fans.https://t.co/Cg3JvNUAKu
