X-ray Touring Co-Founder Steve Strange, 53, Dies

Provided photo – Steve Strange

UK-based agency X-ray Touring has announced that founding partner Steve Strange has died. He was 53.

The statement says Strange died following a short illness.

“Steve was a unique individual within our industry, his overwhelming love of music lead to a 30 year plus career guiding the touring of an eclectic mix of artists from all genres of music that he adored,” the statement says, referring to Strange as a “universally known” and “hugely respected character.”

Strange’s clients over the years have included major artists such as Eminem, Coldplay, Snow Patrol, Kodaline and Rob Zombie. Just in August, it was announced X-ray was partnering with Artist Group International via an investment from Ron Burkle’s Yucaipa Companies.

An aspiring drummer himself, Strange in a 2016 executive profile with Pollstar talked of his love for guitar-driven classic rock like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, his love for his daughter and confirmed Steve Strange as his real name.

Asked his favorite thing in the world, Strange replied, “Aside from my daughter, the ability to travel, and explore worldly cultures that I would have never been able to do if it hadn’t been for this job. It’s one of the many reasons why I love being an agent. You get a chance to open your mind and explore great cities, iconic cities throughout the world and get to appreciate how different they all are from each other.”

Strange’s passing shook many in the industry, including Neil Warnock, founder of The Agency Group and current UTA head of worldwide touring, who commented, “I can’t believe we have lost Steve Strange. He was an absolute icon in the world of music. He was a fan of all music genres who was at the top of his game. I’ve lost a true friend and the industry has lost a larger-than-life character.“