‘This evening was for Nick,’ the words of tribute band Genesis Connected after playing their first gig on February 1 following the death of bass player Nick Smith of Peterborough. After performing in Neath, Wales, the band posted: “Thank you to the SOLD OUT Gwyn Hall for a special night. We really felt the love on this difficult first gig back”
On January 27 the band posted that “with the blessing of Nick’s family, we are back on the road.
“Even though it’s still early days and we’re still coming to terms with this heartbreaking loss, we need to get back to what we do to keep us sane and back with our lovely fans.
“Of course, it will feel different and strange for a while, but we need to do it.
“A wonderful musician friend is standing in for February while we find a full time replacement.
“We would like to say a huge thank you for all of your beautiful and supportive comments through this terrible period. We always knew we had amazing fans and followers, but you certainly confirmed that.
“Thank you so much”
Police confirmed today that the death of musician Nick Smith. whose body was recovered from his submerged car at North Bank between Whittlesey and Peterborough, is not being treated as suspicious.
However, a statement from the Cambridgeshire force said road traffic officers “are investigating the circumstances”.
Mr Smith, 54, of Mansfield Court, Peterborough, was discovered on 23 January in his car, which was submerged at North Bank, Whittlesey.
Mr Smith had been missing for two days after being seen on CCTV leaving work off Padholme Road East and heading towards the Newark Road roundabout in Peterborough.
His body was recovered overnight following a police search along the North Bank between Peterborough and Whittlesey.
His family have released a tribute to him.
“Nick was a naturally gifted self-taught musician who established an amazing reputation across UK and further afield within the bass guitar world,” it says.
“Born and bred local lad from Newark village in Peterborough, Nick attended Newark Hill primary and Deacon’s senior school.
“He moved away from a career in IT to follow his passion as a full-time musician, he has taught many local children and adults and will be missed very much.
“We have not only lost an amazing son and brother, but a genius musician.”
Genesis Connected – who have a full list of tour dates this year – had already been forced to cancel a sell-out performance at the Borough Theatre, Abergavenny after Mr Smith was reported missing.
On their Facebook page, Genesis Connected said at the time: “Our worst fears have been confirmed. On Tuesday, we lost our brother and bass player, Nick Smith.
“He was more than just a bandmate—he was family. Nick had a tragic accident after going missing earlier this week.
“We are all struggling to comprehend this loss and the massive void it leaves in our lives. His talent, humour, and friendship brought us together in ways that only brothers on stage can understand.
“He lit up every room he walked into, and his presence on stage and in our lives can never be replaced.”
The band added: “We know this loss is felt deeply by so many—his family, friends, and every person who had the privilege of knowing him.
“We ask for your understanding, patience, and support as we navigate through this painful time. Please keep Nick’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as we all process this heartbreak. Nick, we love you, and we will carry your spirit with us always mate.”
Nick started playing bass aged 11 in 1982 and turned pro in 2001. He has played with countless bands and theatre shows and has worked with Chesney Hawkes, Mike Berry, John Leyton and many more.
His main hobby was collecting basses!
Mr Smith’s sister Ally Hall spearheaded a massive social media campaign to find him after he was reported missing.
She later shared to Facebook: “My talented, kind, funny, annoying at times big brother has left us for pastures new.
“He has been promoted to fly above us and guide those he leaves behind.
“While our hearts are breaking and our minds running overtime, he is at peace”.
“I hope he can look down and see how much he was and is loved.
“One of life’s good guys.
“Nick you are and always will be a legend amongst your followers friends, your music family and our own family.”
Ally described him as a “self-taught talented musician. A guy who made people smile, an inspiration to many young and old budding musicians. Globally recognised and always spoken so highly by others.
“Good night my big brother.
“I already miss you so much. Fly high. RIP xxxx.”
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