Mark Sheehan, guitarist for the popular Irish band The Script, has passed away at the age of 46. The news of his tragic death has left fans and fellow musicians in shock and disbelief. With his incredible talent and infectious personality, Mark was not only a gifted musician but also a true inspiration to many. His passing is an immense loss for the music industry and all those who knew and loved him. As tributes pour in from across the world, we take a moment to celebrate the life and legacy of this gorgeous soul.
Mark Sheehan, the guitarist and co-founder of Irish rock band The Script, has died at the age of 46 following a brief illness. Sheehan formed The Script in Dublin in 2001 with drummer Glen Power and singer Danny O’Donoghue, and the band went on to achieve worldwide success with hits such as “Breakeven” and “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved”. Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, with President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins praising Sheehan’s “outstanding” contribution to Irish music. Sheehan is survived by his wife Rina and their three children, Cameron, Avery and Lil. The band has asked for privacy for Sheehan’s family at this time.
Born in the Liberties area of south inner city Dublin, Sheehan began his career in music with pop band Mytown, which was managed by former U2 manager Paul McGuinness. After Mytown disbanded, Sheehan and O’Donoghue formed The Script, which released its debut album in 2008. The album, which featured popular hits such as “We Cry” and “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved”, reached number one in both the UK and Irish charts. The band went on to release six studio albums, with six of them reaching number one on the UK charts.
Sheehan was known for his songwriting and guitar playing, and was regarded as the driving force behind the band’s success. The group’s music often dealt with themes of heartbreak, loss and perseverance, with Sheehan’s personal experiences informing much of their work. In a 2008 interview with the Irish Mirror, Sheehan revealed that he had spent months on night shifts at the hospital alongside his mother Rachel, who was ill for 10 months before she died. Sheehan said that he wrote lyrics during his night shifts while his mother was asleep, and that her encouragement had helped him to pursue his dreams of becoming a successful musician.
Tributes to Sheehan have come from across the music industry, with many emphasizing his kindness and humility as well as his musical talents. Singer-songwriter Hozier said that Sheehan’s passing was “saddening” and sent his condolences to Sheehan’s family and bandmates. Fellow Irish band Kodaline described Sheehan as a “lovely man” and sent their deepest condolences to his family and friends. Meanwhile, Mikey Graham of Boyzone offered support and empathy to Sheehan’s bandmates, Glen Power and Danny O’Donoghue.
The Script had been due to support American artist P!nk during her European tour later this year. The band has not yet commented on whether these scheduled performances will go ahead. In addition to their musical success, The Script has also been involved in charity work, with Sheehan and his bandmates raising money for causes such as cancer research and homelessness. Sheehan’s death has been described as a great loss to the music industry and to Irish music in particular.
In the wake of Mark Sheehan’s untimely passing, the music world has lost a true gem. His influence on Irish rock music and his contributions as The Script’s lead guitarist will forever be cherished by fans across the world. Beyond his musical talent, Mark was known for his kind heart and warm personality, earning him the love and respect of all who knew him. As the world mourns his loss, we celebrate his life and the incredible impact he had on those around him. Rest in peace, Mark Sheehan, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
