Smash Mouth singer Steve Harwell says he is retiring, citing health issues have become too much for him to handle.
Harwell told TMZ, "Ever since I was a kid, I dreamed of being a Rockstar performing in front of sold-out arenas and have been so fortunate to live out that dream. To my bandmates, it’s been an honor performing with you all these years and I can’t think of anyone else I would have rather gone on this wild journey with."
The news broke after a viral of Harwell performing with Smash Mouth over the weekend in New York went viral for his antics on stage. He appears to be slurring his speech, curses at the audience and seemed to be out of it, the video shows.
According to TMZ, someone close to the band says Harwell was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy 8 years ago, which affects motor functions including speech and memory. He has also reportedly struggled with substance abuse. The source says Harwell was having an episode during the show and that it made him dazed and confused.
"To our loyal and amazing fans, thank you, all of this was possible because of you. I’ve tried so hard to power through my physical and mental health issues, and to play in front of you one last time, but I just wasn't able to."
"I cannot wait to see what Smash Mouth accomplishes next and am looking forward to counting myself as one of the band’s newest fans."
Harwell reportedly was planning to take a break from Smash Mouth, but it looks like he is retiring instead. Sending him well wishes for a return to good health.