Harry Cummins
Updated on: October 15, 2024 7:04 am GMT
Danny O’Donoghue, frontman of The Script, shared an emotional tribute to his late bandmate Mark Sheehan during a recent appearance on BBC Breakfast. As the band prepares for their upcoming world tour and promotes their new album “Satellites,” O’Donoghue reflected on the profound impact Sheehan had on both his life and the band’s journey.
The loss of Sheehan, who passed away in April 2023 after a brief illness, has deeply affected O’Donoghue and drummer Glen Power. “Last year was devastating. We lost my best friend and guitarist in the band,” O’Donoghue lamented. The grief has been a challenging journey, with O’Donoghue admitting, “I went down a bit of a hole last year, drinking and trying to get over the grief of your best mate.” Yet, he spoke of a transformation, saying he has since given up alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine, affirming, “I’m not fun anymore but I’m healthy!”
While the road to healing remains ongoing, O’Donoghue noted, “You never really get rid of grief; it’s always there. You just learn to grow around it.” The process of creating “Satellites” offered a much-needed outlet for emotions and memories. He expressed that making the new album was cathartic, providing direction for the band during a challenging time.
Facing Grief Together
O’Donoghue opened up about how interacting with reminders of Sheehan, such as photos, brings mixed feelings. “It’s both heartbreaking but also a great testament,” he shared, emphasizing how many lives Sheehan touched globally. “People remember him in such a way, and it’s beautiful.”
As the tour approaches, O’Donoghue expressed regret that Sheehan won’t be there physically to witness the band’s journey. However, he remains optimistic, saying, “I know he’s looking down and he’s happy.” The band dedicated their new album to Sheehan, solidifying his legacy within their music.
Remembering a Legacy
Mark Sheehan was not only a founding member of The Script, established in 2001, but he was also a beloved husband, father, and friend. Following his death, the band publicly announced the loss, asking fans to respect their privacy during that difficult time.
O’Donoghue and Power faced a critical decision in the wake of Sheehan’s passing. They decided against replacing him and instead chose to move forward as a four-piece, welcoming new musicians Ben Sargeant and Ben Weaver. In interviews, O’Donoghue conveyed the difficulty of this choice, recalling how they thought, “What would Mark do?” to find clarity.
A New Chapter
As they prepare for the Satellites World Tour starting this November, O’Donoghue stressed that the band is eager to embrace this new chapter. “Our gut instinct was to keep going, but to do it in a way that honors Mark,” he said. The band’s connection with their fans played a crucial role in this decision, aiming for a path that felt authentic and respectful to Sheehan’s memory.
The emotional resonance of their new album reflects the band’s commitment to their craft while navigating the complexities of loss. O’Donoghue’s reflections demonstrate that grief, although challenging, can also pave the way for growth and creativity.
Looking Forward
Fans can anticipate a heartfelt tour, as The Script takes the stage with not just new music but also cherished memories of Sheehan. The band’s ability to channel their grief into performance highlights their resilience and dedication. O’Donoghue’s candid acknowledgment of his struggles and triumphs reminds listeners that they are not alone in experiencing loss and healing.
Through their music, The Script aims to honor Sheehan’s legacy while providing emotional support to fans grappling with their own challenges. As the world tour approaches, O’Donoghue’s words resonate with many, transforming grief into a powerful narrative of hope and connection.
In a digital age filled with challenges, The Script remains a beacon of artistry and sincerity, demonstrating that even in the face of hardship, music can provide a profound sense of purpose and healing.
The band is getting ready to release a new album and go on tour! They want to keep making a difference in people’s lives while celebrating their history and looking forward to a bright future. They feel inspired by their dear friend, Mark Sheehan, as they take this exciting journey.
