Gerard Smith, bassist for influential indie rock group TV on the Radio, was reported to have died the morning of Wednesday, April 20, 2011 following a brief battle with lung cancer. Smith had been diagnosed with lung cancer only weeks before, and upon doctor’s orders was absent from the band’s current tour, though its members had expressed optimism that the bassist would be rejoining them.

Smith joined TV on the Radio prior to the recording of their third album, “Return to Cookie Mountain,” on which he played piano, organ, and sitar in addition to bass. The group’s next two albums, “Dear Science” and the recent “Nine Types of Light,” displayed Smith’s bass playing in an increasingly prominent role.

TV on the Radio’s latest full-length album, “Nine Types of Light” was released April 11 to generally positive reviews. TV on the Radio has announced their cancellation of all shows through April 26.