Tom Verlaine dead at 73: Legendary punk guitarist for band Television dies as loved ones share heartwarming tribute
Punk guitarist Tom Verlaine has died aged 73, his ex’s daughter Patti Smith said.
Jesse Paris Smith shared a moving tribute to the musician on her Instagram page on Saturday.
She wrote: “Dearest Tom. Love is immense and forever. My heart is too full to share now and finding the words is too much of a struggle.
Sad news: Punk guitarist Tom Verlaine has died aged 73, his ex’s daughter Patti Smith has announced (pictured 2014)
Touching words: Jesse Paris Smith shared a touching tribute to the musician on her Instagram page on Saturday
“The inner feeling is so heavy, even though your mind is light and sublime, it is everywhere, complete and truly free.
“I love you always and forever and will always remember the touch of your hand and hold it – hands of a beautiful Creator and a love warmer, tenderer, tenderer and truer than could ever be dreamed of.
“There has never been anyone like you and there never will be. What a blessing and gift I have been given to share my time on earth with you.
Grief: Jesse wrote: “Dearest Tom. Love is immense and forever. My heart is too full to share now and finding the words is too difficult.” (Tom pictured in 1980)
Born to perform: He was the lead singer and guitarist for the New York City-based band Television from 1973 to 2023 (TV members (LR) Billy Ficca, Richard Lloyd, Tom Verlaine and Fred Smith, pictured in 1976)
“I will be grateful to the end of my life and we will see you again afterwards and meet you wherever you went. Thank you for leading the way.’
Born on December 13, 1949 in Denville, New Jersey, Tom’s real name was Tom Miller, with Tom Verlaine being a stage name.
Tom’s stage name is a reference to the French symbolist poet Paul Verlaine.
From 1973 to 2023 he was the lead singer and guitarist for the New York band Television.
While Television did not have much commercial success, his meaningful lyrics were well loved by rock fans.
Tom released eight solo albums between 1979 and 1992.