Michael Been of the Call (& father of Robert Been/BRMC) collapses backstage after concert

(Nick Jago & Michael Been)

We have some very sad news to report to you… Leader/vocalist/guitarist of The Call, father of Robert Been (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) as well as the sound engineer for BRMC, Michael Been has passed away. No official cause of death has been announced and all the information we’ve gotten thus far has been from foreign news sites translated. Here’s what we know about this very sad event:

Michael Been, Sound engineer and father of bassist Robert Been of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, was unwell Thursday in the backstage area of Pukkelpop. “The first aid was immediately administered by the workers of the Flemish Cross and the doctors present backstage.” says festival organizer Chokri Mahassine. “The Medical Emergency Team was immediately on the spot.” The 60-year-old man was rushed to the Salvator Hasselt hospital where he later died.

Our hearts go out to our close friend Robert, his family & the band.

RIP Michael Been.

Mp3s:

The Call – “The Walls Came Down”

The Call – “I Still Believe”

Videos:

The Call – “The Walls Came Down”

The Call – I Still Believe (1986)

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/katealvarez Kate

So sad, my heart is breaking for Rob and Pete and all the good boys and girls in that crew. He seemed like such a mentor and supportive-father-figure and all-around rad dude. RIP.
http://twitter.com/toweleeeie Towelie

Sad
Johanna

Cannot believe it! RIP Michael
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yes no

Sympathies to the Been family. R.I.P. Michael Been.
norm

Michael was an inspiration both as a human being and a musician. I was fortunate enough (along with some close friends of mine) to meet him in person in 1986 after a stellar show in Birmingham, AL.

Thoughts and prayers going out to his family. The song “Uncovered” from “Let the Day begin” tells us where Michael is today and for eternity.
Jonathan Andrews

I am so sorry to read this. I had the opportunity to see the Call on multiple occasions. What a voice, a great bass player, and so important to my early musical taste formation.
Jordan Diaz

so sorry to hear that. He was one hell of a musician and taught Robert well. My heart goes out to the Been family. Best wishes to them and everyone in the band. RIP.
jon

very sad …
http://www.playlistresearch.com Alex Cosper

Michael Been was a very special artist who wrote incredibly deep intellectual songs that will stand in history as gems … Since the first time i heard it I have always regarded “I Still Believe” as one of the greatest songs ever written.
Daniel

Seriously bummed out by this. Requiescat in pace, Mr. Been.
ElJefe

R.I.P.
Jon

He was a hero to me…I first saw him at the Greek Theater with the Call opening for Peter Gabriel. The crowd booed them even as they struck a cord in my heart. He was ethereal in his presence and seemed part of a bigger picture. As he dropped his bass on stage he seemed to be saying “listen for just a moment of what I am trying to say”. Then they played their hit at that time “The Walls Came Down”. The crowd went crazy and suddenly seemed to realize there was more to this band. I have been hooked ever since. I was, I am, A fan.
Marty MacKeever – Nashville, TN

I’m was born in 1964 and am still stuck in the 80′s! I still cry when I think about Michael Been’s passing. He will always be one of my absolute heroes in 80′s alternative rock music !!!!!!
David P

The man had a heckuva voice, and his music was so passionate it was palpable. I’m so grateful for his music.
http://buddyheat stephanie hughes

One of the BEST concerts at Kent State University to see this terrific group. The sound of “Jesus Loves Me” down the student union halls as Michael gave his rendition. So incredible! What a hole is left in our music by this loss.
Scott

Mike you were and are an amazing and powerful soul. It was an honor to know you. Love always.

“I know it’s gonna end in laughter. Lord I KNOW it’s gonna end in joy!” Michael been

Amen
Paul “Pavi” Felix

By far a great sound engineer also. My thoughts and preyers go out to everyone associated with the BRMC family. By far the best band out now.
Shane

Michael has moved on to the next chapter; I’m sure he is celebrating. His music will live on with the rest of us! He was such a powerful songwriter and emotional singer, he definately touched my life, as I’m he did so many others. I count myself blessed to have caught him and The Call Live in Evansville, IN on June 22, 1986.

My prayers go out his family, friends and bandmates. May you all look back in fondness on the memories of his life. God bless each of you,
Shane
Cybercub

I’m in SHOCK learning of Michael’s passing. My heart goes out to the Been family and the great people in the BRMC family. You all are in my thoughts on the huge loss of the rebel Daddy. Peace
Randy

An icon of alternative rock, he will definitely be missed. His voice, passion and songwriting greatly impacted the landscape. Here’s a great cover of I Still Believe by a band who I know he influenced, The Choir: http://www.thechoir.net/istillbelieve.mp3
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