LONDON---Andy Rourke, bass guitarist of British band The Smiths, has died at the age of 59, band-mate Johnny Marr announced Friday, May 19, lauding the passing of a "kind and beautiful soul." Rourke died "after a lengthy illness with pancreatic cancer," The Smiths co-founder and lead guitarist said on social media. Along with drummer Mike Joyce, Rourke provided a pounding and melodic rhythm section underlying Marr's pioneering chords as The Smiths became one of Britain's most influential bands during the 1980s. Battling heroin addiction and financial difficulties, Rourke joined Joyce in suing Marr and lyricist Morrissey for a greater share of royalties in the years following...Keep on reading: Bassist of legendary UK band The Smiths dies; 59