A publicist confirmed that Shelley passed away Thursday at his home in Estonia.
Even though the band is widely known as a punk outfit, The Buzzcocks managed to step into multiple genres of music including power pop, new wave and pop punk while simultaneously pushing the boundaries in their lyrics, which often examined human sexuality.
As a solo artist, Shelley would continue to explore these themes and 1981, released a song called “Homosapien,” which was banned by the BBC for "explicit reference to gay sex."
The song would go onto secure slots on U.S. dance charts and was the first time Shelley talked openly about being bisexual.
Celebrities and friends of Shelley took to social media to express their condolences:
Pete Shelley wrote perfect three minute pop songs. The soundtrack to being a teenager. You’ll be missed Pete but you’ll be remembered for a long long time for your brilliant music https://t.co/bt03fGbcgd
— Tim Burgess (@Tim_Burgess) December 6, 2018
Oh God but I loved Buzzcocks. And Pete Shelley was an amazing songwriter. "But after all life's only death's recompense." RIP ♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/vAAg7Jui52
— Tracey Thorn (@tracey_thorn) December 6, 2018
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