Music and film world pay tribute to Fountains of Wayne's Adam Schlesinger

Schlesinger was the co-founder of "Stacy's Mom" hitmakers Fountains of Wayne, and went on to write songs for musical comedy tv series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

Variety reports that the musician died Wednesday (1 April) morning following complications from coronavirus. He was 52 and had been hospitalised in Upstate New York for over a week following his COVID-19 diagnosis.

He also received an Oscar nomination in 1997 for writing the theme song for the Tom Hanks-directed film That Thing You Do!.

Jack Antonoff and Tom Hanks are among those paying tribute to the late musician online.

adam schlesinger took pop music writing to its classiest and most untouchable place. an honor to live at the same time he made his work.

— jackantonoff (@jackantonoff) April 1, 2020

There would be no Playtone without Adam Schlesinger, without his That Thing You Do! He was a One-der. Lost him to Covid-19. Terribly sad today. Hanx

— Tom Hanks (@tomhanks) April 2, 2020

Ugh. Heartbreaking to hear about Adam Schlesinger having passed. Such a brilliant songwriter.

— Elijah Wood (@elijahwood) April 1, 2020

I have so much to say about Adam Schlesinger that I am at a complete loss for words. He is irreplaceable.

— Rachel Bloom (@Racheldoesstuff) April 2, 2020

I’m so saddened to hear of the death of Adam Schlesinger due to Covid19. From the Dana Carvey show to A Colbert Christmas Special, he was a great (and patient) and talented artist with whom it was my good luck to work. Peace.

— Stephen Colbert (@StephenAtHome) April 2, 2020

I am very sorry to hear the terrible news about Adam Schlesinger. I had the pleasure of working with Adam when he wrote the theme to Crank Yankers. He was a kind and super-talented man who will be missed. Sending love to his family, friends and fans.

— Jimmy Kimmel (@jimmykimmel) April 1, 2020

Terribly sad to hear news of Adam Schlesinger's passing
I loved Fountains OF Wayne. Sang on one of their albums and opened up for them once in LA. As a fan of smart, melodic music Adam and Chris we're always so great.
Taken much too soon RS

— Ron Sexsmith (@RonSexsmith) April 1, 2020

Fuck. The world is suddenly a much shittier place without Adam Schlesinger in it. RIP pal. October 31, 1967-April 1, 2020

“What else is new?
What can I do?
But sing this valley winter song
I wrote for you” - Fountains of Wayne 2003

— Counting Crows (@CountingCrows) April 2, 2020