Static-X frontman Wayne Static has died aged 48, it has been announced.
The musician’s death was confirmed via the band’s Facebook page on Saturday. Any further information as to his cause of death is yet to be released.
“Platinum-selling musician Wayne Richard Wells, better known as Wayne Static, passed away at the age of 48,” the statement read. “Wayne Static was the enigmatic former frontman and namesake of Static-X, who later forged a successful solo career.”
The nu-metal singer had been due to tour alongside Powerman 5000 and Drowning Pool in January. Fellow musicians have since paid tribute to Static on social media, including Papa Roach’s Jacoby Shaddix, who suggested a drug overdose is to blame for the singer’s untimely death.
Shaddix said on Instagram: “This is so sad. Too many musicians are dying from overdoses… The number of friends that I have lost to addiction is crazy. If you are struggling with addiction get some help before it’s too late.”
Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan recalled memories of working with Static on Twitter. “I am shocked to hear that Wayne Wells (Wayne Static) has passed away. I played with him in his first band, Deep Blue Dream, in 1987/88.
“He was a real gentleman, and loved music (and KISS, Ace in particular). Even had the hood of his car painted with the KISS logo.”
Splipknot vocalist Corey Taylor wrote: “I am absolutely devastated to hear about Wayne Static’s death. A good man and a good friend. My thoughts are with his family and friends.” Motörhead tweeted: “We are very sad to hear of the passing of Wayne Static. #RIPWayneStatic.”
Wayne Static began a solo career under the name Static-X following his band’s indefinite hiatus in 2010. The group released five studio albums, including their platinum-selling debut ‘Wisconsin Death Trip.’ See tributes to the late singer below.
https://instagram.com/p/u4iPvbgKdS/
https://twitter.com/Billy/status/528893858885926913
https://twitter.com/Billy/status/528894268472320000
I am absolutely devastated to hear about Wayne Static's death. A good man and a good friend. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
— Panickin’ Skywalker (@CoreyTaylorRock) November 2, 2014
https://twitter.com/DAVIDMDRAIMAN/status/528747194220691457
We are very sad to hear of the passing of Wayne Static. #RIPWayneStatic
— Official Motörhead (@myMotorhead) November 2, 2014
My heart goes out to Wayne's family. He was my friend.Many shows and tours together. I'm stunned and shocked. RIP my dear friend #speechless
— Aaron Lewis (@Aaronlewismusic) November 2, 2014
RIP WAYNE STATIC http://t.co/qCzKTAxUgT
— Dave Navarro (@DaveNavarro) November 2, 2014