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Mike Smith Obituary
Smith died at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital outside of London less than two weeks before he and his band mates were due to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio, Margo Lewis said.
Smith provided vocals, keyboards, and song-writing for The Dave Clark Five, one of many British rock acts whose music swept across the United States in the 1960s during the so-called "British Invasion."
The Beatles were the best remembered. But between 1964 and 1966, one British hit followed another across the Atlantic, with bands such as The Rolling Stones and The Animals conquering America's charts.
The "Dave Clark Five" claimed a string of U.S. billboard hits, including "Because," "Glad All Over," and "I Like it Like That." The band made 12 appearances on the "Ed Sullivan" show, a record for any British act.
The group's antics were captured in John Boorman's 1965 documentary "Catch Us If You Can," which followed Smith and his band mates through the English city of Bristol.
The "Dave Clark Five" was due to be inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall on March 10, a ceremony Lewis said Smith was trying to attend despite being paralyzed from the waist down following a spinal injury in 2003.
"We're very unhappy about the whole situation - it's sad," Rock and Roll Hall of Fame President Joel Peresman said. He said the ceremony would go ahead as planned, but that there would be "a little extra significance this year."
Smith is survived by his wife, Charlie.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
213 Entries
susan
January 26, 2025
its so sad the mike smith passed away. his music was simply amazing. i am 64 years old and for as long as i can remember i have been a fan. it breaks my heart when someone as great as mike left so soon. i would have given anything to have met him and thank him.
John Woodcock
December 19, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Lars
April 21, 2024
I am +70 now and I grew up with DC5, Id listen almost every day to Glad all over. I´d like Mike with his voice and seemed so enjoyed and happy when played and sang with a smile.
So very sad you had leave us Mike.
Rest in peace Mike, I will always remember you.
Peggy Marie McCoy
April 2, 2024
Mike Smith was such a joy in my youth and still today I watch and listen to his music
on YouTube, was so sad to hear of his injury & I´m sure
He is in love and light of above.
A much better place. Thank you angel for everything.
How you can show support
Ann Brewer
May 27, 2023
I've just found out that Mike Smith died. So sad and too young. LOVED him in the DC5. Always smiling and always my favourite when I was growing up in the 60's.
Tess Reque
May 9, 2023
I'll be 69 in July. I grew up loving this group's songs, singing along with them whenever I hear them.
I will always remember Mike, that guy with the beautiful smile!
Rest in peace, Mike!
Paul Fennell
January 20, 2023
I'm 60 years old now and I have been listening to the dave Clark 5 since I was a kid I still love their music and always will they were a great inspiration to us all
Jane
December 9, 2020
He was gorgeous and talented, with a beautiful smile & a passionate, soulful voice you could listen to forever. Rest In Peace, Mike. You brought a lot of joy to many.
Valarie
September 16, 2020
Mike Smith is and always will be a rock god in my world. RIP Boomer.
Valarie Newsham
April 22, 2020
Mike.. You were the voice that could stop time and take away my breath all in a fleeting second. I will miss not only what you brought to the music scene but what could have been..... Always remembered and never gone from my heart. V.
Bob Lockley
August 16, 2019
amazing that you are still on our minds years later, that tells you about the impact of your music.
Mark Swartz
January 18, 2019
A very talented man who's warmth and charm came through his performances. He certainly brought me a lot of joy through the years and inspired my love of music. Here's a rare live solo performance of 'Because' remixed w/ studio tracks - beautiful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQ9apJNPrfA
chuckie ready
September 10, 2018
he was the best keyboard player ever.
Carol Marano
August 6, 2018
A Bouquet of Talent and Charisma...
My wife and me
Glenn Suggs
May 24, 2018
Mike, you have been an inspiration to many people, including myself. I've enjoyed your music over the years and pray you rest in peace.
Helmar Ahlén
May 10, 2018
Miss you and your fantastic vocal Mike. And of course the happy smile of yours.
February 28, 2018
Mike, I am still in "Bits and Pieces" over your passing. May you rest in peace. You will always be remembered.
Carol Luzzi
February 27, 2018
On this 10th anniversary of your passing, you are remembered for your great voice and songs. You also always had that infectious smile. God bless you, Mike.
Cosette
January 21, 2018
From Cosette! He was a wonderful singer. If I had a favorite of the DC5 group, Mike Smith was the one! He will be remembered.
alan osman
January 12, 2018
Mike was one in amillion. His legasy will live for ever!
Richard K
December 21, 2017
Mike, May GOD bless and rest in peace.
December 7, 2017
Mike, you are not forgotten. On this day that would have been your 74th birthday, hope you are celebrating in heaven.
William Edgar
August 9, 2017
Thank you Mike for your beautiful music and personality. I would have loved to meet you, you are like an older brother I never had.
Doris Lopeke
April 1, 2017
Eternal Rest Grant Unto him oh Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen. R.I.P. Mike - Gone too soon but shall never be forgotten. You were very talented with a great voice and the rare capability of writing songs that were second to none. In life, you brought joy, peace and happiness to those fortunate to be in your presence and also to us who could only hear your 'musical masterpieces'. May you now find the same joy, peace and happiness up in Heaven in Our Heavenly Father's Loving Presence.
Mary
February 28, 2017
Remembering you today, Mike.
A L
February 28, 2017
Rest in Peace Mr Mike Smith. A great musician who is deeply missed.
Jean Smith
February 11, 2017
What a doll!
Miss you Mike, your music and your vocals.
RIP
Jimi lee
February 5, 2017
The a Voice of The Dave Clark Five! Never Forgotten!
Karen Williamson
February 1, 2017
I saw you in concert in West Covina, California at the Carousel Theatre. Great concert! You guys were the best! RIP!
Mary
December 6, 2016
Happy birthday, Mike! And thanks for all the great music, your voice lives on. Keep on rockin' up there, Mike!
Dolores Bright
September 24, 2016
Mike, you always were and always will be my favorite DC5 member!! "Because, Because I love you" Rest in peace!
Gwen Kallie
June 2, 2016
You were so underrated as a singer, but I think that kept you humble and true to yourself. I'm very sad that you're gone, but grateful for the music you left us. God Bless and Keep You Always.
Cindee Segal
April 23, 2016
What a sweet and lovely man you were. Thank you for all the beautiful and tender music. I am grateful for your generous heart and soul, you will always be missed.
sue blue
March 29, 2016
Roe Bronico
March 25, 2016
So sad that you are gone but you left a ton of memories that will live on in your music. You were my fav!
carol marano
February 6, 2016
your legacy is eternal...
Steve Gale
March 27, 2015
One of the original rock voices, thanks for your contribution to the music I loved, still listening to you, and I was not born till 1965.
Alan Gilpin
March 16, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Because I Love You
Norma
March 6, 2015
I lived in a small town in Oklahoma and we were suppose to get married one day. I'm sad it never happened. Saw The DC5 several times in concert and still have every album I bought since I was 13. I have an autographed pic of you by your XKE plus a handwritten note thanking me for my letter that I've always cherished. Loved you my whole life & hate that you're gone. Will love & miss you forever.
Larry Dann
February 27, 2015
Great memories when we worked at the Mermaid Theatre in Gullivers Travels. Super man, we had lots of laughs. RIP Mark,
Larry Dann
February 14, 2015
Great times great music great band peter sandow circus us artist
madelaine watson
January 5, 2015
What a voice and what a man, Mike Smith had it all. I am so "glad all over" that I got to enjoy your music as well as your handsome looks. You are sadly missed.
Mike Fox
December 28, 2014
Mike, you were one of the absolute kings of blue eyed soul. Thank you for the listening joy you have brought us.
Gerry Taylor
December 27, 2014
So often on Monday mornings when I was in school, the talk was of The Dave Clark 5 the night before on Ed Sullivan. I guess it was at least twelve times you were on? DC5 had the echo and the volume and just the right sound. None of this would have happened if not for Mike Smith. Rock on!
Joy Sabbatini
August 23, 2014
You made sunny days even brighter!!!
Linda Dileone
August 7, 2014
Mike.... simply a legend in your own time.
The scope of your talent and the relevance of your music influenced us all.You are not the "late" Mike Smith", but the "timeless" Mike Smith.
That goes for your good looks ,too :)
Glad you got to tour the USA in 2003 and saw all the love that was out there.
Thanks for the music....I'll always smile like its 1964 when I hear you sing.
karen wotton
July 24, 2014
watching the documentary brought back so many memories. that great smile,the look of awe on your face with all those girls screaming and the goofy faces you would do once in awhile. you looked like you were always enjoying yourself. sexy too which i can appreciate now at 64 instead of 14. its hard to think about you,denny,and rick gone but you tube lets me relive those wonderful memories. rest in peace you deserve the best heaven can offer along with rick and denny. thank you for making me smile always. to his family and friends i pray you find happiness again.
Lillian Holt
July 2, 2014
I learned if Mike's passing 1 month ago. I listen to the radio and watch T.V. all the time and remember ever hearing about it. So sad. My heart is broken. Certain people are suppose to live forever. Just the way we see them in our youth
Fay Kelley
June 29, 2014
No one more handsome...No one more talented as a singer...No one nicer....No soul more gentle....
No one better...
Memories for a lifetime. That's YOU, Mike....
Mary Ann Christofely
June 13, 2014
While watching DC five documentary I learned of his passing. He now sings with angels.
Sara Tamargo
May 27, 2014
Mike Smith, sui generis. Your music still brings me joy and transports me back to the 60s. You were my first crush. When I saw video of you mugging and winking into the camera, I felt like a kid again.
Rebecca Barthel
May 12, 2014
I've read every entry in this obit. I'm amazed by so many women that also loved Mike. I sit awake at night and think about all the articles written up to today. I'm so very sad for your loss Charley. I'm consumed by grief since I've recently read the whole story. Bless you Mike and Charley. I wish you'd reach me [email protected]. You are both in my prayers and in my heart.
Rebecca Barthel
May 12, 2014
Mike Smith was my first crush and to this day the best rock & roll singer. I'm just learning of Mike's accomplishments and of his passing. The special on Great Performances woke me from a 50 years slumber. Oh how I wish he were still with us. Heaven is home to a true artist and hopefully I will see this sweet man one day. Best to you Charley, I'm mesmerized by your lives and love story. There is always hope. Bittersweet but beautiful all the same.
N. Tibbetts
May 9, 2014
Mike was truly our "music angel" here on earth. Kind, compassionate, not to forget handsome as well. I was and am so drawn to him and his music. God bless and keep you forever.
Bev Sanders
May 4, 2014
Mike Smith was such an amazing singer. He made the Dave Clark Five. His eyes and quirky smile . . . made you feel warm. And you smiled. It was a blessing to have had him on this earth. Gone to soon.
April 22, 2014
I always loved Mike's voice. He was the voice of the British Invasion. I was in 2nd grade and pantomimed "Over and Over" in a school talent show. RIP ...your songs live on forever.
Ray Hensel
April 13, 2014
Thank God for Mike Smith and Thomas Edison. We can all enjoy the DC5 forever. What a gift.
john cicco
April 12, 2014
Great group great singer will be missed god bless you. My condolences to his wife
Bella Gong
April 10, 2014
I was only in the 4 th grade, but I became bewitched by Mike Smith's singing and his brilliant smile. He was the true talent behind the DC5. I am deeply sadden by his passing. His sunny optimism, talent, and music will live on forever in my heart. The sky is dimmer for the loss of a bright star such as Mike Smith. My deepest condolences to his devoted wife. I shall light a candle for him in every church I visit.
Bella Gong
April 10, 2014
I was only in the 4 th grade, but I became bewitched by Mike Smith's singing and his brilliant smile. He was the true talent behind the Group. I am deeply sadden by his passing. His sunny optimism, talent, and music will live on forever in my heart. The sky is dimmer for the loss of a bright star such as Mike Smith. My deepest condolences to his devoted wife. I shall light a candle for him in every church I visit.
Laurie Ann Bazinet
April 9, 2014
Even though I was only 6 when I first Saw Mike Smith. Oh boy did I have A crush on him! God Bless him he is in a better place.
Karen Wadley
April 8, 2014
Saw the Dave Clark special on PBS and all of the memories came back. He had the best smile and voice I've ever heard.
Kathy Sandberg
April 8, 2014
I miss you dearly. You are forever in the hall of fame in our hearts!
Rosemary Blum
April 3, 2014
God bless
Jon and DaySun
Jon Kodi
March 21, 2014
Charlie ,
If you ever read this , please email me @ [email protected] miss you ! Jon
February 28, 2014
TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF MICHAEL. I AM SORRY TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE. MAY YOU FIND COMFORT BY DRAWING CLOSE TO GOD DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME PS 1211-8
Richard Lyon
July 16, 2013
An amazing guy with an amazing voice, gone but never forgotten.
Willie Clark
May 18, 2013
Mike Smith , I miss you dearly . Whenever I listen to my Dave Clark 5 CD's I picture you playing the organ with that big grin on your face when you're singing . I used to emulate you playing the organ when I listened to you and the boys . May God Bless you're soul , You are truly missed !
Jon & Ann Jacek
May 13, 2013
We will miss you...so sad.
Mike Smith
March 6, 2013
I so Enjoy the DC 5 music! and Mikes voice is amazing! i listen to Glad all over and Bits and Pieces Every morning i drive to work!:) god bless you Charlie and may Mike rest in Peace:)
louise wisinski
July 15, 2011
I dreamt of you last night Michael. My grandmother always said that was a sign that the decesed needed prayers. Praying for you today.
Elizabeth Mack
June 15, 2011
Although you're gone, Mike, your voice in all those records lives on. Loved you then, love you now. God bless Charlie - may He comfort and strengthen you.
David Dunaway
November 18, 2009
Mike was the DC5. He belted out the rockers with excitment and vitality then drew you in with the ballads. Being a professional musician myself Tappedmusic.com, Mike is my musical inspiration.Crank out "Do you love me" and hear the windows shake. Mike left us but Heaven has a new frontman.God bless you Charlie.
Trish Hufft
October 6, 2009
The DC5 were the best. Mike was my favorite & he truly 'made' the DC5. His talent will sadly be missed. Saw them in concert in Houston TX & even recv'd a fan letter from Mike. Kept it until I married many yrs later. So glad you found each other again Charlie and bless you for the love you shared and still share. God Bless to you and family.
Mary Kate Ross
August 7, 2009
As a young girl in the 60's no other group could hold a candle to my beloved DC5 or as I always called them the Mike Smith 5,I always loved Mike always will. and I send God's love to you Charlie for taking such good care of this most wonderful and talented man, you will see him again. GOD's LOVE to you.
Brecca 214.448.1889
May 19, 2009
I am sure the loss of your beloved is still overwhelming. But, I keep thinking how glad I am that you found one another again and that you were there to love him till his last breath on earth.I have always loved and admired you Charlie....wishing you the best. I know your heart will heal to be stronger than before because it is filled with the love of this sweet man.We are always taught that "nothing is forever" but, love like the two of you experienced transcends all space and time.
Reggie Montinola
April 13, 2008
Loved Mike-saw him personally in concert up close, very handsome, Talented, condolence to CHarlie and fm. Such a shame that Dave Clark has not reissued the box collections-that is a great memorial and remembrance to us of MIKE! Rest in peace
Thomas Foley
March 12, 2008
My Sincere Condolences to the Family of Mike Smith. He was my favorite singer of my favorite Group THe Dave Clark Five. I was saddened to witness the personal hardships he incountered of the last several years of his life . Now he rest in peace, Amen. Now I can almost hear his famous gravely voice sing up in the regions of Heaven ! Peace to all! Respectfully thomas F.X. foley
Mike at a performance what a wonderful shot
March 8, 2008
Emily Wilson
March 6, 2008
I consider the absolute best way to honor and remember a talented musician like Mike Smith is to play his music! That way he will never die, but will live on through his art!
LeAnn Zerck
March 6, 2008
My very sincere sympathies to Charlie and the Smith family. Mike will be missed. My memories of him are many, not only memories of the great music he has left to us, but of a man of kindness, compassion, a man of much strength and courage, and an amazing ability to cope with all the obstacles in his life with that sparkle in his eye and that smile on his face!! I was able to talk to Mike on the phone a couple of times when he was hospitalized and those memories will always be so special to me. Thank you, Charlie for those calls!!! Mike, you will not be forgotten!!! I am trying to imagine you in heaven, no pain, no tubes, no wheelchair!!! That's what we all wanted for you, although we were hoping that it would have been here on earth!! You will always live on in your music!! Sending love, hugs, thoughts and prayers to the Smith family.
Caroline Evans
March 5, 2008
My prayer is that you will awake from your golden sleep to a much better place! Perhaps you will re-enter the 1960's again, and everything will be all fresh and new for you, now that you've climbed that 'stairway to Heaven'!
Ralph & Dora Lee
March 4, 2008
The Best singer Forever & a Day Mr. MIKE SMITH!!!!!!! God Bless
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
March 4, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the Smith family in the loss of Mike.
John Salas
March 4, 2008
Rest in Peace Mike.... Thank you for the music you left us with,I spent many hours listening to the Dave Clark 5.. Rock On!
Joe Bowers
March 4, 2008
I really enjoyed lessening to your music on the radio after all in the 60s I never had any thing better to do. Your music brought me a lot of joy when it was needed.
Louis Terry
March 4, 2008
I am a soul lover that is the reason why I always liked you. You are one too. God Bless Mike Smith. Regards goes out to Charley.
Joe and Andrea Blackwell
March 4, 2008
My wife and I will never forget a great guy like you God bless Mike Smith. Hey Charley now is the time to be strong.
Adele Seabra
March 4, 2008
In beloved memory of Mike Smith. Charley no crying be like Mike, Glad all over.
Anthony and Linda Clark
March 4, 2008
We will miss you Mike and the DC5
Gunk and Tillie Mooney
March 4, 2008
We always enjoyed here your music back in the 60s Bye Bye Mike from the Mooney and Clark families.
Carol Bittner
March 4, 2008
Mike the first time I saw you on the Ed Sullivan Show I knew I never marry the man I true fully loved. Bye Bye Mike I am going to miss you.
Denise
March 3, 2008
I remember Mike Smith & the DC5 from when I was a little girl. As time, & life, goes by, I hadn't really thought about them for a while until I heard this sad news. Now, all I hear are echoes of his voice in my mind.
I never really appreciated what a wonderful singer he was (although I always liked the DC5) until now. Now I'm going to have to dig through my old records to find my "Bits & Pieces" album!
Please know that you are in the thoughts & prayers of many & that Mike is going to have the best seat in the house for his installation in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame here in Ohio.
Cheryl Kohner
March 3, 2008
To Mike's Family,
You have my deepest sympathies in your loss. I grew up watching the Ed Sullivan show and got my first glimpse of the Dave Clark 5 at that time. They were so great! They brought us all alot of wonderful memories. God Bless Mike's memory and his family.
RON YANCEY
March 3, 2008
MY LOVE AND PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY. THANKS FOR SHARING MIKE WITH US. WE LOVED HIM DEARLY....
JANEL KELLER
March 3, 2008
THANKS FOR THE MUSIC AND
MEMORIES OF THE DC5. GOD BLESS!
Janice
March 3, 2008
I saw the DC5 in concert several times during the 1960's. They were by far my favorite group. In fact, I still have most of my old "albums" I'm sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I heard Denis Payton has passed away too, Too bad, they were a real part of my youth, I will always remember them fondly.
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