Ian Curtis, singer, musician, and songwriter of the post-punk band Joy Division, died on May 18th, 1980 at the age of 23. His sudden death was attributed to suicide via hanging. Curtis formed the band in 1977 in Manchester, England, and rose quickly to fame with their debut album, Unknown Pleasures. Joy Division’s impact on music was immediate and far-reaching, influencing multiple alternative genres including gothic rock, shoegaze, and indie. After the release of their follow-up record, Closer, Curtis’ battle with depression and epilepsy became more apparent. Though his time on earth was brief, Curtis’ work has had a lasting imprint on many, continuing to captivate new listeners and influence new generations of musicians.