Charlie Cooper, one-half of Telefon Tel Aviv, has passed away at the age 31, it’s been reported.

The cause of his death is still unknown, but bandmate and friend Joshua Eustis left the following message on the band’s MySpace page.

“It breaks my heart to inform you all that Charlie Cooper, my better half in Telefon Tel Aviv, passed away on January 22.


Aside from Charlie’s singular genius and musical gifts, I can tell you that he was a total sweetheart of a guy, and a loving friend and confidant to people everywhere. His musicianship was surpassed only by his greater gift to the world—his warmth, his generosity, his unquenchable humor, and his undying loyalty to those he loved. In the spirit of honorable mention, however, I should mention that he had a shoe collection that was marvelous, knowledge of hip-hop that was profound, and knowledge of wine that was subtle.


More details as to the cause of his death will follow in the coming days.

Update: According to a CBS Chicago article, Cooper went missing last Wednesday night, after an argument with his girlfriend, and was found Monday in the Near Northwest Side neighborhood in Chicago. An autopsy is scheduled for today to determine the cause of his death.

Cooper (left) and Eustis.