Phil Naro Dead At 63 Years Old

RIP

Phil Naro, best known as the lead vocalist of Billy Sheehan’s band Talas, has passed away at the age of 63 following a lengthy battle with tongue cancer. He died at his Rochester home.

“It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing of our son, father, friend and musician Phillip Sampognaro, known professionally as Phil Naro,” his family said in a statement posted on social media. “Phil fought a valiant battle against cancer over the last few years but left this earth last night surrounded by his family and closest friends.”

“Phil was one of those rare individuals known as a ‘singer’s singer.’,” they added. “A staple of both the Canadian and U.S. music scene, Phil had become a mainstay in venues ranging from clubs to large performing arts centers and massive arenas.”

Talas gained prominence in 1980 when they opened thirty shows for Van Halen. Naro joined them for their third album “Live Speed on Ice” and he also had several other projects post-Talas. He worked with KISS’ Peter Criss, Whitesnake, Yes, Vanilla Fudge, Asia, and more. He recently reunited with Talas to record a new album which is slated for release this year.

Phil Naro is survived by sons James and John, brother Joseph, and his mother, Maria.