Richard H Kirk, a founding member of influential Sheffield group Cabaret Voltaire, has died aged at the age of 65.
Kirk formed the band with Chris Watson and Stephen Mallinder in 1973, with a name inspired by the Zurich nightclub that was the spawning ground of the Dadaist art movement of the early twentieth century.
The band became known for their provocative live performances and they experimental music was inspired by technology.
Cabaret Voltaire frequently supported Joy Division and were an influence on New Order, Depeche Mode and Bauhaus.
They took a more pop approach in the early eighties and had hits with Sensoria and I Want You.
Speaking to the Irish Times last year, Kirk said, "After Chris Watson left, we carried on in a totally different direction. A lot of people said it was rubbish. Fortunately, I think it has stood the test of time."
808 State were among those paying tribute to the late singer.
Sad news to here of the passing of Richard H Kirk .One one the UK Daddy's of electronica -The cabs DIY approach was an early inspiration of what to do with synths in the 70s , then the ease at which he entered into the 90s club culture with out having to change his game much. https://t.co/9iAjhd4JoI
— 808 State (@state808) September 21, 2021
"The Cab's DIY approach was an early inspiration of what to do with synths in the 70s, then the ease at which [Kirk] entered into the 90s club culture without having to change his game much." They said.
Mute Records, which released several of Kirk's solo albums and albums by the band, tweeted:
It is with great sadness that we confirm our great & dear friend, Richard H. Kirk has passed away.
— Mute (@MuteUK) September 21, 2021
Richard was a towering creative genius who led a singular & driven path throughout his life & musical career.
We will miss him so much.
We ask that his family are given space. pic.twitter.com/Ok8u3dNx3T
"It is with great sadness that we confirm our great and dear friend, Richard H Kirk has passed away.
"Richard was a towering creative genius who led a singular and driven path throughout his life and musical career.
"We will miss him so much. We ask that his family are given space at this time." described him as a "towering creative genius who led a singular and driven path throughout his life and musical career".
