JUSTIN CARY, SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER BASSIST, DEAD AT 50

Justin Cary, bassist for US alt-rock band Sixpence None the Richer, has died at the age of 50. Leigh Nash, the band's frontwoman, confirmed his death on Thursday 18 June via social media. Nash described Cary as "kind, talented, and one of the funniest people" she had met, and thanked him for his years with the band. His wife Linda was present at the time of his death, according to reports.

Cary joined Sixpence None the Richer in 1997, replacing the band's former bassist before they released their self-titled album featuring the hit single 'Kiss Me'. The track experienced renewed popularity on TikTok in 2020. In the days before his death, a GoFundMe fundraiser was established after Cary suffered a stroke on Thursday night and underwent treatment at Albany Medical Centre in New York. Nash had publicly encouraged fans to support the fundraiser, describing Cary as a band member of 30 years.

A statement posted to the GoFundMe page asked for continued prayers and strength during the difficult period. The band has received tributes from musicians and fans following the announcement. Nash later shared additional remarks on social media, highlighting a distinctive bass technique Cary performed during performances of 'Kiss Me' each night.