- Gerard Smith, dead at 34: Smith was the bass player for eclectic rock band “TV on the Radio,” and was receiving treatment for lung cancer. His bandmates released this statement: “We are very sad to announce the death of our beloved friend and bandmate, Gerard Smith, following a courageous fight against lung cancer. Gerard passed away the morning of April 20th, 2011. We will miss him terribly.” Deepest condolences to his friends and family — 34 is too damn young to go, especially from such a terrible disease. source