April 18, 2010 18:57

You Say Party! We Say Die! drummer Devon Clifford passes away after collapsing onstage

Clifford was performing with the band in Vancouver

Photo: Justin Tyler Close

You Say Party! We Say Die!'s drummer Devon Clifford passed away this morning (April 18), after collapsing during the band's gig in Vancouver on Friday.

Clifford, who was 30, was taken to hospital after falling ill at the Rickshaw Theatre venue. Frontwoman Becky Ninkovic is said to have asked fans at the gig to call 911 after realising he had collapsed.

A statement from Clifford's family said he experienced a massive brain haemorrhage resulting from congenital defects and fell into a coma. Despite surgery being performed, doctors were unable to save him.

The statement continued:

"Devon Clifford was an extremely gifted drummer and determined character. He loved his family, loved his band, loved travelling, loved being on stage and loved meeting people around the world. He was smart, witty, passionate, and music meant everything to him. He was also incredibly generous with his love and respected everybody he came into contact with. This was underlined by his work with the under privileged at the Portland Hotel Society.

"The Clifford family would like to take this opportunity to remind young people to have the courage to follow their dreams like Devon did."

A tribute from the band's record label Paper Bag has also been released, saying:

"It is with absolute sadness to report that our dear friend Devon Clifford passed away just hours ago in a Vancouver hospital surrounded by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. I request that we respect the family's privacy during this incredibly difficult time."

The band paid tribute to their drummer on their Twitter site, saying simply: "DEVON CLIFFORD 1979 - 2010 R.I.P."