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Steve Mackay, The Stooges Saxophonist, Dies at 66 from Sepsis Complications

Steve Mackay, the distinctive saxophonist best known for his work with the seminal punk outfit The Stooges, has died. It's been reported that the musician was in critical condition with sepsis. He was 66 years old.

His sepsis were a result of complications with an infection, which can cause multiple organs to fail.

The third member of the Stooges to die in the past decade, Mackay was known for his contributions to the 1970 album Fun House. Since the group reformed in 2003, he had become a central touring member.

Frontman Iggy Pop wrote in a statement on Facebook, "Steve was a classic '60s American guy, full of generosity and love for anyone he met. Every time he put his sax to his lips and honked, he lightened my road and brightened the whole world. He was a credit to his group and his generation. To know him was to love him."

Mackay was born in Grand Rapids, Mich. and has cited his influences to be Charlie Parker, John Coltrane and Stan Getz. Recently, he was featured on the 2007 Stooges LP The Weirdness as well as 2013's Ready to Die.

The saxophonist has also worked with the Violent Femmes, R Stevie Moore, Sonny Vincent and has a long repertoire of other work. While studying at the University of Michigan's art school, Mackay met Iggy after being invited to a jam session.

The session ultimately led to the saxophonist being featured on the songs "Fun House" and "1970." As the latest member to pass, his bandmates that precede him are guitarist Ron Asheton and drummer Scott Asheton. A staple to the Stooges, both in the studio and out, we would like to send our condolences to Mackay's family and loved ones.

While you remember him fondly, check him out with the Stooges in Detroit below.

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