Los Angeles, Feb. 7 -- Fred Smith, the influential bassist for the proto-punk band Television, has died at the age of 77. The band confirmed his passing on its Instagram account.
According to Variety, Smith began his career with Angel and the Snake, which eventually became Blondie. In 1975, he left Blondie to replace Richard Hell in Television.
Following the band's initial breakup in 1978, Smith contributed to solo albums by Television members Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd, as well as recordings for The Roches, Willie Nile, Peregrins, and The Revelons. He also played bass and toured with The Fleshtones.
When Television reunited in 1992, Smith rejoined the band and continued performing on numerous tours over the years.
Bandmate Jimmy Ri...