The bassist and keyboard player of the Brooklyn-based band TV on the Radio, Gerard Smith, has died of lung cancer. He was 36.

On the band's official website, Smith's bandmates posted a statement.

We are very sad to announce the death of our beloved friend and band mate, Gerard Smith, following a courageous fight against lung cancer. Gerard passed away the morning of April 20, 2011. We will miss him terribly, the statement reads.

It was only last month that TV on the Radio announced that Smith was sick. In a statement on their website, the band said, He has been undergoing treatment and will be unable to participate in the upcoming tour. Gerard is fortunate enough to have health insurance and receive excellent medical care. Already we have seen dramatic results. Combine that with Gerard's legendary willful disposition and it might just be cancer that has the problem. We appreciate your concern and support for Gerard and his family.

The band will also be canceling a few of their shows.

  • April 20 St. Andrew Halls, Detroit MI
  • April 22 Metro, Chicago IL
  • April 23 First Ave, Minneapolis MN
  • April 24 First Ave, Minneapolis MN

• April 26 Ogden, Denver CO

Smith joined the band in 2005 and was a part of the albums Return to Cookie Mountain and Dear Science.

Smith, along with lead singer Tunde Adebimpe, penned the soundtrack for a documentary on public education titled The Lottery.

New York TV Cancer Cancer