It’s Christmas Eve, and we absolutely did not want to be reporting on a death, so we’re gutted to have to report Faithless singer Maxi Jazz has died. He was 65.

“We are heartbroken to say Maxi Jazz died last night,” Sister Bliss and Rollo said in a statement. “He was a man who changed our lives in so many ways. He gave proper meaning and message to our music… He was a lovely human being with time for everyone and a wisdom that was both profound and accessible. It was an honour and, of course, a true pleasure to work with him. He was a brilliant lyricist, a DJ, a Buddhist, a magnificent stage presence, car lover, endless talker, beautiful person, moral compass and genius.”

On Twitter, Sister Bliss explained that Jazz “died peacefully in his sleep”.

Maxi Jazz 1957 – 2022. We are heartbroken to share that Maxi died peacefully in his sleep last night. Sending love to all of you who shared our musical journey. Look after each other y’hear. 🙏💔 pic.twitter.com/4R88rg8Aza

— sister bliss (@thesisterbliss) December 24, 2022