The Rockstars Who Died In 2024

As 2024 ends, we honor the remarkable contributions made by the gifted musicians who have passed away this year. Dickey Betts, the iconic guitarist for the Allman Brothers Band and a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, passed away on April 18.

Sadly, MC5 star Wayne Kramer passed away before the band’s long-overdue Rock Hall induction. Heartbreaking losses during the summer included ’80s star Greg Kihn, Jack Russell of Great White, and Shifty Shellshock of Crazy Town. We lamented the passing of the great Quincy Jones, Phil Lesh, the bassist for the Grateful Dead, and Paul Di’Anno of Iron Maiden in the fall.

This is a celebration of their outstanding contributions to the history of music.

James Kottak (Ex-Scorpions, Kingdom Come)
The gifted drummer James Kottak, who was most recognized for his time with the Scorpions, died on January 9 at the age of 61. Although his cause of death was not disclosed, there is no denying his influence on rock music. Throughout his career, Kottak played with well-known bands such as the McAuley Schenker Group, Kingdom Come, Warrant, and Montrose.

From Eye II Eye to Return to Forever in 2015, he contributed to the Scorpions’ albums after joining them in 1999. Unfortunately, his battles with alcoholism caused him to leave the band. Notwithstanding his difficulties, Kottak’s drumming continues to be a key component of his legacy in rock history.

Wayne Kramer (MC5)
At the age of 75, iconic MC5 guitarist Wayne Kramer passed away on February 2 following a fight with pancreatic cancer. Rock was greatly influenced by Kramer and MC5, most known for their bold riffs and political edge, with albums such as Kick Out the Jams (1969), Back in the USA (1971), and High Time (1972).

Before resuming his profession, Kramer had to cope with legal troubles and jail time when MC5 was dissolved in 1972. He returned to music in the late 1970s, working with popular bands and releasing five solo albums. In 2018, he celebrated Kick Out the Jams’ 50th anniversary with an all-star tour. MC5’s lasting impact has influenced generations of musicians despite not being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to this day.

Mojo Nixon
Mojo Nixon, the legendary alt-rock rebel of the ’80s, passed away on February 7 at 66. Nixon was aboard the Outlaw Country Cruise, where he tragically suffered a “cardiac event.” Known for his fiery personality, Nixon had embraced a second career as a DJ and co-host on the same cruise.

His family shared on Facebook: “Mojo Nixon was full-tilt, wide-open rock hard… Passing after a blazing show, a raging night… Mojo has left the building.”

Nixon’s quirky hits like “Elvis Is Everywhere” and “Don Henley Must Die” left their mark, and he also dabbled in acting with roles in Great Balls of Fire and Super Mario Bros.

CJ Snare (Firehouse)
Firehouse’s legendary frontman and co-founder, CJ Snare, died suddenly at home on April 5, 2024, at the age of 64. On Facebook, the band posted the tragic news, describing him as a “rock and roll warrior” and expressing their astonishment at his sudden death.

Co-writing Firehouse’s biggest hits, such as “Don’t Treat Me Bad” and “Love of a Lifetime” from 1991 and “When I Look Into Your Eyes” from 1992, Snare played a crucial part in the band’s success. His strong voice and timeless contributions to rock have left an enduring legacy, and fans everywhere will remember him for the music that defined a generation.

Dickey Betts (Allman Brothers Band)
Dickey Betts, the legendary guitarist for the Allman Brothers Band, died on April 18 after a long battle with cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. With successes like “Ramblin’ Man,” which shot to No. 2 in 1973, Betts, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, made a lasting impression on rock history.

Before leaving the reunion lineup in 2000 due to a legal issue, Betts had multiple stints with the Allman Brothers. He earned his reputation as a pioneer of Southern rock by sharing his talent with fans through The Dickey Betts Band and Dickey Betts & Great Southern even after he left the band.

Steve Albini (Shellac, Producer)
Steve Albini, the influential musician from Shellac and Big Black who became a celebrated producer passed away from a heart attack on May 7 at the age of 61. Known for his bold opinions on the music industry, Albini wasn’t afraid to call out unfair label practices.

His production legacy is legendary, featuring Nirvana’s In Utero and collaborations with artists like Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, Pixies, PJ Harvey, Urge Overkill, and Helmet. Albini’s unique touch and unapologetic honesty made him a driving force in shaping the sound of alternative rock for decades.

Jon Wysocki (ex-Staind)
Staind’s original drummer, Jon Wysocki, died on May 18 at the age of 53. Playing on all of the band’s albums until their 2011 self-titled record, he played a significant role in their ascent to stardom. Wysocki departed the group just prior to the album’s release, and Staind thereafter took a protracted break.

Wysocki kept up his musical career after leaving, playing with SOiL and most recently Lydia’s Castle. His love of drumming and his contributions to Staind’s success made a lasting impression on the rock community.

Shifty Shellshock (Ex-Crazy Town)
Shifty Shellshock, born Seth Binzer of Crazy Town, passed away on June 24 at the age of 49. He was found at his home in Los Angeles, with his death officially ruled as an accidental overdose, according to his representative. Known for his unforgettable role in the band’s hit “Butterfly,” Shifty’s passing marks a tragic loss for fans and the music world alike. His unique style and influence in the early 2000s rock scene will always be remembered.

John Mayall (John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers)
John Mayall, a legendary blues guitarist, died on July 22 at the age of 90. He founded the legendary Bluesbreakers in 1963, which paved the way for the careers of future superstars like Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce of Cream, and John McVie and Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac. The Bluesbreakers continued to perform until 2008 after reuniting in 1982 and recording until 1970. Mayall left a lasting impression on the blues genre by recording and performing even after the final breakup.

Greg Kihn (The Greg Kihn Band)
Greg Kihn, lead singer of the Greg Kihn Band, passed away on August 13 at the age of 75 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He found major success with his 1983 hit “Jeopardy” and also made waves with “The Breakup Song (They Don’t Write ‘Em)” in 1981. After his music career, Kihn transitioned to radio, becoming a popular DJ in San Jose, California. He also ventured into writing, authoring several horror books. Kihn’s legacy in music and beyond will be remembered by many.

Jack Russell (Great White)
Great White’s original lead singer, Jack Russell, died on August 7 at the age of 63. After a turbulent career that included surviving the tragic nightclub fire in Rhode Island in 2003, Russell continued to perform with his band, Jack Russell’s Great White. He was a member of the band when they released their debut album in 1984, but it was their third album, Once Bitten, that brought them their first big hit with “Rock Me” and “Save Your Love.” Their greatest success came with the 1989 album Twice Shy, which featured the hit song “Once Bitten, Twice Shy.” After receiving a diagnosis of Multiple System Atrophy and Lewy Body Dementia, he had just stopped touring.

Paul Di’Anno (Iron Maiden)
On October 21, 2024, Iron Maiden’s founding frontman, Paul Di’Anno, died at the age of 66. He performed in a wheelchair due to serious health concerns, yet he nevertheless entertained audiences by delivering more than 100 gigs since 2023. Highlights of Di’Anno’s career include Iron Maiden’s legendary 1980 debut and songs like “Iron Maiden” and “Phantom of the Opera.” He worked on several projects, including Battlezone, Killers, and a solo career, after splitting from the band in 1981. A documentary about his life was in the works, and his last record, The Book of the Beast, was released in September.

Phil Lesh (The Grateful Dead)
Phil Lesh, founding bassist of the Grateful Dead, passed away on October 25, 2024, at 84. Originally a classically trained trumpeter, he switched to bass at the request of Jerry Garcia, and his unique, self-taught style became a defining sound for the band. Lesh’s passion for jazz helped shape many of their most famous songs like “Truckin’,” “St. Stephen,” and “Box of Rain.” He also provided memorable backing vocals on “Workingman’s Dead” and “American Beauty.” After Garcia’s death, Lesh continued to perform, keeping the Grateful Dead’s legacy alive through various projects.

Quincy Jones
Renowned producer and musician Quincy Jones died on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91. He passed away quietly at his Bel Air, California, home. Jones won 28 Grammys throughout his incredible 75-year career, and Time magazine praised him as one of jazz’s finest. He made a lasting impact on music by producing pop classics like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and “We Are the World” and arranging for Frank Sinatra. In addition, Jones became the first African American to be nominated for two Oscars in the same year and had Top 40 songs as an artist.

Tony Clarkin (Magnum)
Days before the release of Magnum’s 23rd album, Here Comes the Rain, founding guitarist Tony Clarkin passed away on January 7 at the age of 77. Clarkin’s death followed a brief illness, and the band had just postponed their upcoming tour when he was diagnosed with a severe spine ailment. Although Magnum’s breakthrough album, Kingdom of Madness, was published in 1978, the UK was where they achieved the most popularity. The songs include “Days of No Trust,” “Start Talking Love,” “It Must Have Been Love,” and “Rockin’ Chair.”

Greg ‘Fritz’ Hinz (Ex-Helix)
After battling cancer for almost a year, Greg “Fritz” Hinz, the longtime drummer for Helix, died on February 16 at the age of 68. Before rejoining the group in 2009, Hinz played with them from 1982 to 1996. Brian Vollmer, the leader of Helix, recalled Fritz as the “consummate rock drummer” who was extremely proud of his work and performances. According to Vollmer, “I’m going to miss him so much.” Fritz played drums on many of the band’s greatest singles, such as “Deep Cuts the Knife,” “Good to the Last Drop,” “Rock You,” and “Gimme Gimme Good Lovin’.”

Bobby Tench (ex-Jeff Beck Group)
Bobby Tench, the talented singer-guitarist known for his time with the Jeff Beck Group, passed away on February 19 at 79. He began his career with The Gass but got his big break when Jeff Beck invited him to replace Rod Stewart in The Jeff Beck Group. Tench appeared on Rough and Ready and The Jeff Beck Group in 1972. His work with Beck led to collaborations with rock icons like Ginger Baker, Van Morrison, Freddie King, Humble Pie, and Topper Headon, cementing his place in rock history.

Vitalij Kuprij (Trans-Siberian Orchestra)
The gifted Ukrainian-American pianist and keyboardist Vitalij Kuprij, who was well-known for his work with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, died on February 20 at the age of 49. After playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra from 2009 to 2019, he returned in 2021 and recently concluded the group’s 2023 Christmas tour. He participated in the band’s 17 winter tours over the years, helping to create their recognizable Christmas-themed performances. Outside of TSO, Kuprij worked with Ring of Fire, the Vivaldi Metal Project, and the neoclassical metal band Artension.

Bob Heil (Bob Heil Talk Box Creator)
Bob Heil, the inventor of the iconic Talk Box effect unit, passed away on February 28 at 83 after a battle with cancer. The Talk Box became famous thanks to Peter Frampton, who used it on his hit 1976 album Frampton Comes Alive!. Frampton expressed his sorrow, calling Bob a “musician, inventor, and Heil Sound pioneer,” and thanking him for the gift of the Talk Box. Joe Walsh, who worked with Heil on the Talk Box in 1973, shared heartfelt memories, calling him a “tireless problem solver” and a “mentor” who had been a friend for over 50 years.

Jim Beard (Steely Dan)
Jim Beard, a gifted composer, pianist, and keyboardist, died on March 2 at the age of 63 from complications following an unexpected illness. He had played with Steely Dan as recently as January 20 and had been a member of the touring band since 2008. Beard was well-known for his outstanding collaborations with jazz greats John McLaughlin, Pat Metheny, and Wayne Shorter. Beard, who has composed more than 100 songs and released six solo albums, including Show of Hands (2013), was nominated for and won a Grammy in 2007 for his performance on Randy and Michael Brecker’s Some Skunk Funk.

Brit Turner (Blackberry Smoke)
Brit Turner, the drummer for country-rock band Blackberry Smoke, passed away on March 3 at 57, as announced by the band on social media. In the fall of 2022, Turner was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a fast-growing brain cancer, and underwent surgery to fight it that November. His passing followed a tough summer in which he also suffered a heart attack. Turner co-founded Blackberry Smoke in 2000 in Atlanta, Georgia, and the band described him as their “True North,” the guiding force behind their musical journey. His legacy will continue to influence their sound.

Blake Harrison (Ex-Pig Destroyer)
Blake Harrison, former sampler for Pig Destroyer, passed away on March 9 at 49. He joined the band in 2006 and stayed until 2022, known for adding unique noise and sound elements to their music. Harrison first connected with the band while playing in Daybreak, eventually helping with merch before becoming their sound designer and sampler. He contributed to albums like Phantom Limb (2007), Book Burner (2012), and Head Cage (2018). Although he had battled and overcome cancer in recent years, his death came as a shock. His passing leaves a lasting impact on the band and fans alike.

Karl Wallinger (World Party, Waterboys)
The Waterboys and World Party’s gifted singer-songwriter Karl Wallinger died on March 10 at the age of 66. Wallinger played keyboards for The Waterboys in 1983 and contributed to their hit song “The Whole of the Moon.” He left the band in 1985 to start World Party, which put out five albums with hits like “Ship of Fools” and “She’s the One.” Wallinger had a serious health setback in 2001 after suffering a brain aneurysm, but he resumed performing in 2006.

Eric Carmen (Ex-The Raspberries)
The Raspberries’ vocalist and renowned solo performer, Eric Carmen, died in March 2024 at the age of 74. As the lead singer of The Raspberries, he produced classic successes from the 1970s, such as “Go All the Way,” “I Wanna Be With You,” and “Overnight Sensation,” which combined charm reminiscent of the Beatles with piano-driven melodies. Later, he rekindled his pop magic with successes like “I Want to Hear It From Your Lips,” “Hungry Eyes” from Dirty Dancing, and “Make Me Lose Control.” Carmen began his solo career after the band’s breakup with classic ballads like “All By Myself” and “Never Fall in Love Again.”

Keith LeBlanc (Producer)
After fighting an unspecified illness, the renowned drummer and producer Keith LeBlanc died on April 4 at the age of 69. Renowned for his inventive programming and drumming, LeBlanc worked with such luminaries as Living Colour, Peter Gabriel, The Cure, and Nine Inch Nails. Work with R.E.M., the Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, Annie Lennox, and Robert Palmer are all included on his outstanding resume. He was a true pioneer whose influence cut across decades and genres.

Michael Ward (The Wallflowers)
The Wallflowers’ longtime guitarist, Michael Ward, died on April 1 at the age of 57. In their tribute, the band stated, “Michael’s talent and unique style will always be a vital part of our story. His impact on music began long before and continued well beyond his time with us.” Ward played with the Jakob Dylan-led group from 1995 to 2001, contributing to their classic albums Breach from 2000 and Bringing Down the Horse from 1996. Finally, the band said, “Rest now, Mike. Much love to his family and children.”

John Barbata (Jefferson Starship)
Former Jefferson Starship drummer John Barbata died in May 2024 at the age of 79. “We’re deeply saddened by the loss of the great John Barbata, our original drummer,” the band wrote in a Facebook tribute to him. Rest in peace, Johnny!” Barbata, who was well-known for his extraordinary talent and vigor, had a profound effect on both bandmates and fans. No cause of death was disclosed, but it was stated that he died on May 8.

David Sanborn
After a protracted battle with prostate cancer, legendary saxophonist David Sanborn passed away on May 12 at the age of 78. Sanborn was well-known for his soulful jazz approach, but his impact went beyond jazz as he worked with such greats as Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, the Eagles, and others. Additionally, he contributed his distinctive sound to songs by Kenny Loggins, Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, and Steely Dan. His memory and songs will always have an impact on his admirers.

Dennis Thompson (MC5)
Dennis Thompson, the last surviving member of the trailblazing MC5 and their renowned drummer, died in early May at the age of 75. He was recuperating in a care facility in Detroit following a heart attack in April when he passed away. Before his death, Thompson was overjoyed to hear that MC5 would soon be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which would be a fitting homage to the band’s heritage and his significant contribution to rock history.

Richard Tandy (ELO)
Richard Tandy, longtime keyboardist for Electric Light Orchestra, passed away on May 1 at 76. ELO bandleader Jeff Lynne shared heartfelt words, calling Tandy a “remarkable musician and dear friend” and expressing gratitude for their lifetime of memories together. Before joining ELO, Tandy played alongside Lynne in the pre-ELO group Move. Beyond his ELO legacy, he co-founded the Tandy Morgan Band with touring members Dave Morgan and Martin Smith, releasing the concept album Earthrise in 1985.

Duane Eddy
The renowned guitarist who invented the “twang” sound, Duane Eddy, died on April 30 in Franklin, Tennessee, at the age of 86. Renowned for his instrumental compositions, such as the enduring Peter Gunn theme, Eddy made a lasting impression on rock and country music. He worked with musicians including B.J. and Waylon Jennings and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Thomas. His impact was lauded by country music icons Steve Earle and Marty Stuart, and in 2016, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for having shaped the genre’s musical landscape.

Doug Ingle (Iron Butterfly)
The organist and vocalist of Iron Butterfly’s psychedelic rock heritage, Doug Ingle, died on May 24 at the age of 78. The band’s enduring sound was shaped by Ingle, who is most remembered for his contributions to classic albums like Heavy, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida, Ball, and Metamorphosis. Ingle did not contribute to any post-split records, but he would occasionally perform with his bandmates after the group’s dissolution in 1971.

Douglas Scott Kane (Doug and the Slugz, The Generators)
After a valiant battle with cancer, Douglas Scott Kane, better known as “Doug” from Doug and the Slugz, died on May 30 at the age of 56. Kane, a member of The Generators and a gifted vocalist with a dynamic stage presence made a significant contribution to punk and rock music. He was a beloved member of the music community because of his enthusiasm and vitality, which came through in every performance.

Peter Collins
After a fight with pancreatic cancer, veteran music producer Peter Collins died on June 28 at the age of 73. Collins had a remarkable career, contributing to more than 50 albums, including Power Windows by Rush, These Days by Bon Jovi, Operation: Mindcrime by Queensrÿche, Hey Stoopid by Alice Cooper, and After the War by Gary Moore. His knowledge and impact influenced the sound of numerous classic rock albums, making a lasting impression on the music industry.

Joe Egan
Joe Egan, well known for being Gerry Rafferty’s creative collaborator on Stealers Wheel, died on July 6 at the age of 77. Before leaving music to run a publishing company, Egan released two solo albums following Stealers Wheel. He co-wrote the band’s biggest song, “Stuck in the Middle With You.” Because of that immortal hit, his contributions to classic rock will never be forgotten.

Eddie Rosenblatt
Longtime Geffen Records president Eddie Rosenblatt died of pneumonia on July 16 at the age of 89. He oversaw the label’s growth from its inception in 1980 to the 1990s. Rosenblatt collaborated with renowned musicians throughout his career, including John Lennon, Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, Joni Mitchell, and others. For years to come, people will remember his influence on the music business and his contributions to classic records.

Pinche Peach (Brujeria)
Brujeria co-vocalist Pinche Peach, who battled heart issues, died on July 17 at the age of 57. He was frequently featured in the band’s music videos and was known as the only “unmasked” member. He joined Brujeria early on when Jello Biafra left, even though he didn’t start with them. His 1993 album Matando Gueros, the band’s first release under Roadrunner Records, left a lasting impression on fans.

Jerry Miller (Moby Grape)
Moby Grape’s original guitarist, Jerry Miller, died on July 20 at the age of 81. He played with Bobby Fuller and The Frantics before to Moby Grape. He co-founded Moby Grape in 1966, and during their early years, they put out five albums. Over the years, Miller reconnected with Moby Grape for multiple tours and also formed his own band, the Jerry Miller Band.

Bill Crook (Ex-Spiritbox)
Late in July, Spiritbox’s former bassist Bill Crook passed away. From 2018 to 2022, he performed with the group and contributed to their Eternal Blue album from 2021. Crook revealed on social media earlier that year that he had been working on new songs with Aaron Gillespie of Underoath. Both the band and its fans will remember his talent and efforts.

Charles R. Cross
Famous author and music writer Charles R. Cross died on August 9 at the age of 67. His most well-known works are Room Full of Mirrors, which is about Jimi Hendrix, and Heavier Than Heaven, which is a biography of Kurt Cobain. Cross also authored books about Bruce Springsteen, Led Zeppelin, and Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart. His in-depth accounts of music icons had a profound effect on both the industry and fans.

Herbie Flowers
On September 5, 2024, Herbie Flowers, the bassist who played the famous twin bass lines on Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side,” died at the age of 86. Flowers collaborated with a variety of music icons during the course of his career, such as Cat Stevens, Harry Nilsson, Elton John, David Bowie, and three Beatles members. He had a lasting impression on decades of music history with his diverse musicianship.

JD Souther
Legendary singer-songwriter J.D. Souther passed away on September 17, 2024, at 78. He was a key figure in shaping the Southern California country-rock sound of the early ’70s. Souther wrote hits for Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles, including “Best of My Love” and “New Kid in Town.” As a solo artist, he scored radio success with “You’re Only Lonely” and his collaboration with James Taylor, “Her Town Too.”

Juan Brujo (Brujeria)
Juan Brujo, founder of Brujeria, passed away on September 16, 2024, at 61. The musician suffered a heart attack while in Ohio during a break from the band’s tour with GWAR. Despite being rushed to a hospital in Wheeling, West Virginia, he sadly passed away despite the doctors’ efforts. His death has left the music world mourning the loss of a true pioneer.

Dave Allison (Anvil)
Dave Allison, the original guitarist of Anvil, passed away on September 30, 2024, at 68. He played on the band’s first five albums before leaving in 1989. The band expressed their condolences on X, remembering him as a close friend and proud of his contributions to Anvil’s legacy. Drummer Robb Reiner shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling a recent visit to Dave’s cabin, where they reflected on old memories and planned a dinner that sadly never came to be. “R.I.P. my old friend,” Reiner wrote.

Jamie Gowers (As Everything Unfolds)
Everything Unfolds announced with heavy hearts that their drummer, Jamie Gowers, passed away suddenly on August 30. “It is with intense devastation and heartbreak that we must inform you that our brother, partner, and bandmate Jamie Gowers has passed away,” the band shared on social media. “There will forever be someone missing from this journey, and it will take time for us to heal.” Gowers played on the band’s albums Within Each Lies the Other and Ultraviolet, following Liam Burgoyne, their previous drummer.

Johnny Neel (Allman Brothers Band)
On October 6, 2024, Johnny Neel, a former member of the Allman Brothers Band, died at the age of 70. Neel joined the band in 1989, playing keyboards and harmonica, and co-wrote numerous songs, including “Good Clean Fun” from Seven Turns. His former bandmate Warren Haynes shared the news, recalling Neel as “an amazing musician and singer” who was also “one of the funniest people on the planet.” Additionally, he co-wrote “Maydell” for the band’s Hittin’ the Note, their last studio album.

Jack Ponti
Producer and songwriter Jack Ponti passed away on October 7, 2024, at 66. He began his music career in the late ’70s, playing guitar in a band called the Rest, which featured a young Jon Bon Jovi as lead singer. Ponti wrote songs for artists like Alice Cooper, Keel, and Nelson, and produced albums for bands including Baton Rouge and Kittie. He also worked with Skid Row before they signed a deal. After retiring in 1991, Ponti returned to the industry as the manager of India.Arie, whose debut album was Grammy-nominated.

Inger Lorre (Nymphs)
On October 16, 2024, singer, composer, and artist Inger Lorre died at the age of 61. She initially became well-known as the lead singer of the Nymphs, whose 1991 self-titled album was released. She started a solo career after the band disbanded, and her last album, Gloryland, was published in 2023. Lorre left a lasting impression on the music industry thanks to her unique voice and unadulterated passion. Fans and peers alike will remember her for her outspoken personality and her legacy of great music.