Canada’s Walk Off The Earth have announced the passing of longtime member Mike ‘Beard Guy’ Taylor.
Back in 2012, Walk Off The Earth found themselves something of a household name thanks to a viral music video. Performing a cover of Gotye’s ‘Somebody That I Used To Know’, the quintet rose to fame thanks to their intriguing performance, in which every member played on the same guitar.
For many, the highlight of the clip was that of Mike Taylor, commonly referred to as ‘Beard Guy’ thanks to his facial hair and comparatively minimal – yet passionate – contributions to the clip.
Now, the band have taken to social media to break the news of Taylor’s untimely passing.
https://www.facebook.com/walkofftheearth/photos/a.10150616071745357/10161317117350357/?type=3&theater
In a post on Facebook earlier today, Walk Off The Earth revealed that Mike Taylor passed away over the weekend from natural causes.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother and band member, Mike “Beard Guy” Taylor,” the band wrote.
“Mike had a love for life that was unmatched and a willingness to give that went beyond ordinary means. He passed peacefully from natural causes last night in his sleep.”
The band noted that Taylor leaves behind two children, while also asking for privacy at the current time.
As it stands, Walk Off The Earth had announced a world tour earlier in December, which would have seen them tour Canada, the US, Europe, and the UK. Scheduled to kick off on New Year’s Eve, ET Canada notes that the band have since cancelled this performance in light of recent events.
Our thoughts go out to the family, friends, and bandmates of Mike Taylor at this difficult time.
Check out Walk Off The Earth’s iconic Gotye cover:
