Some terribly sad news reached us here at Rock Sins in the early hours of this morning (2nd of November 2014) with the announcement that Wayne Static, Founder of nu-metal / industrial metal band Static X had passed away at the age of 49.
Static, who’s real name was Wayne Richard Wells, was a long time successful frontman both with Static-X and in more recent years had forged a successful solo career. The short official statement from Wayne’s publicist can be read below:
Platinum selling musician Wayne Richard Wells, better known as WAYNE STATIC, passed away at the age of 48.
WAYNE STATIC was the enigmatic former frontman and namesake of Static-X, who later forged a successful solo career. Wayne was scheduled to co-headline tours with Powerman 5000 and Drowning Pool over the next several months.
No additional information is available at this time.
As the official statement alludes to, Static had JUST announced his return to the UK on a co-headlining tour with Drowning Pool to take place in early 2015. Condolences have been pouring in from all over the rock and metal community both from Wayne’s close friends and from artists who simply admired him and his work. Fellow US nu-metallers Soil posted on their Facebook:
“We are beside ourselves with sadness right now.. Another legend lost. We will miss you brother”
While UK hard-rockers 48Hours were mourning the passing of a man they grew up listening to:
Sad news this morning of the death of Wayne Static. He was an iconic part of the scene the 3 of us grew up listening to and one that heavily influenced us all musically, and no doubt he will be mourned by so many. RIP dude, keep rocking wherever you may be now..
The most telling quote has come from Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix, who very much gives his thoughts on what he thinks is the cause of Wayne’s passing:
RIP Wayne…. This is so sad. Too many musicians are dying from overdoses. I’m serious, addiction is real and takes fools out. No one is invincible. So glad I live a sober life today. The number of friends that I have lost to addiction is crazy. If you are struggling witn addiction, get some help before it’s too late. I know drugs and partying are part of the ‘rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle,’ but damn, how many more gotta die??? Fuck the lifestyle, I want life!!!! See you on the other side, Wayne….
Whatever the cause, Rock Sins sends it’s condolences to all of Wayne’s friends and family at this very sad time. Any further information about the circumstances of Wayne’s death will be reported in due course.
