Denis Desmond remembers Steve Strange: "His legacy will last forever"

I am genuinely honoured to have known my very good friend, Steve Strange, for over 30 years.

The first time I met Steve, I kicked him out of the backstage area at a Def Leppard show – he had sneaked in, using a dolly cart!

Steve absolutely loved his job. He thrived on developing Artistes. And his global success was phenomenal, helping Coldplay get their first deal, persuading Eminem to tour, and nurturing his 25-year relationship with Snow Patrol and Ash.

Steve was always really supportive of new acts, many of them Irish. And all of his artistes stayed loyal to him, which is a testament to just how good he was. His passion, creativity and supportiveness were endless.

Steve never did a show for the money. He plotted careers and always said: “Career first: the money will follow.” He proved that time and time again.

Everybody who met Steve loved and respected him – which is why everyone in the business is so saddened now by his untimely passing. His smile and loud laugh are no longer with us.

Legendary Steve Strange stories will be told for years to come – and will bring many a smile to peoples faces, he may be gone from this earth, but his legacy will last forever.

May Stevie Rest in Peace. He will be badly missed.

Steve Strange portrait session at Paradigm Agency in Beverly Hills, CA on Wednesday, October 10, 2018
(Photo; Alex J. Berliner/ABImages

Read the full Hot Press tribute to Steve Strange here.