Wayne Static, the singer and guitarist of Los Angeles industrial metal band Static X, has died at the age of 48.
Blabbermouth is reporting tonight that the news “was confirmed by Wayne’s publicists at FiXT Publicity. No further details are currently available, but some of Wayne’s associates have indicated that the death may have been the result of a drug overdose.”
Shortly after news broke, Static X posted the following message to its Facebook page:
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.
Other musicians are starting to chime in as news starts to spread.
“Rest in peace, Wayne,” writes KoRn singer Jonathan Davis. “I’m speechless right now. I’m losing to many of my friends. I’ll see you on the other side, brother.”
Added 9ELECTRIC drummer Micah Electric via Facebook: “My friend Wayne Static has passed away. So glad to have known him, recorded with him, toured with him, partied with him and had MANY real conversations with him. He was a good soul who chose the wrong path. He will be missed. #waynestatic #sadnews #rip”
More details will be posted as they emerge.
Over a 20-year career, Static X released six studio albums, including 2009’s Cult of Static. Wayne Static released debut solo record Pighammer in 2011.
Static X is probably best known for the single “Push It,” off 1999 platinum-selling debut