I’m incredibly saddened to learn that Charlie Cooper, half of Telefon Tel Aviv, has died at age 31. His death on January 22 was revealed by Josh Eustis on the Telefon Tel Aviv MySpace page.
We have been so fortunate to tour the world together, while at the same time having a massive amount of laughs at one another’s expense.
Aside from Charlie’s singular genius and musical gifts, I can tell you that he was a total sweetheart of a guy, and a loving friend and confidant to people everywhere. His musicianship was surpassed only by his greater gift to the world – his warmth, his generosity, his unquenchable humor, and his undying loyalty to those whom he loved. In the spirit of honorable mention, however, I should mention that he had a shoe collection that was marvelous, knowledge of hip-hop that was profound, and knowledge of wine that was subtle.
He is survived by a sister, a neice, a nephew, his mother, his stepfather, me, and more adoring friends than the Universe has dark matter. As such, his family and I ask for your discretion and consideration of our privacy during these extremely turbulent waters.
Reflections on the news from CDM contributor Liz McLean Knight:
Fairenheit Far Away: Charlie Cooper of Telefon Tel Aviv will be missed [Liz Revision]
I certainly wish to respect the privacy of his family and friends, but I suspect that his musical celebrity is such that some of the details of this tragedy may inevitably become public. XLR8R.com points to a CBS Chicago report that he went missing last Wednesday night; an autopsy is scheduled.
RIP Telefon Tel Aviv’s Charlie Cooper [XLR8R.com]
Elsewhere:
Our friend Charlie Cooper from Telefon Tel Aviv has passed away. An unstable time caused by concrete facts and when it is decided that things have settled – it is we who have changed.
A Friend Passes [TRASH_AUDIO]
My heartfelt condolences to Charlie’s family and friends. The musical world will miss one of its great innovators and creative spirits.
I’d certainly welcome thoughts and memories from readers and ways in which we can honor his memory. Feel free to leave ideas in comments.