Jon Wysocki, founding member of Staind, dead at 53

Jon Wysocki, drummer and founding member of Staind, has died at the age of 53.

His death was announced by Wysocki’s band, Lydia’s Castle, on May 18.

“On 5/18/2024 at 8:02pm, @jonwysocki4 passed away surrounded by family and friends that loved him dearly. An official statement will be developed shortly,” read the statement via Instagram.

On Sunday, Staind also released a statement about Wysocki’s death on social media.

“We first met Jon through mutual friends in 1994. We came together with Mike, Aaron and Johnny April in 1995 and founded Staind. The 17 years that followed were some of the best memories of our times together,” the statement read. “From practice in Ludlow, Mass to touring around the world, Jon was integral to who we were as a band. Our hearts go out to Jon’s family and fans around the world who loved him.”

Wysocki’s cause of death has not been reported.

According to TMZ, he was reportedly having issues with his liver that required medical care.

The late musician formed Staind alongside singer Aaron Lewis, guitarist Mike Mushok and bassist Johnny April in 1995. In 2011, he was reportedly kicked out of the band while they were in the midst of recording their seventh studio album.

During his stint, he and the group had three consecutive No. 1 albums: 2001’s Break the Cycle, 2003’s 14 Shades of Grey and 2005’s Chapter V. They were also known for hits such as “It’s Been Awhile” and “So Far Away.”

Lewis reacted to the news of his death via Instagram.

“I’m so sad. I lost my friend. A friend I loved like a brother… fought with like a brother… cared for like a brother… worried about like a brother… cried over like a brother… because he was my brother in arms. My journey would’ve been different without him,” he wrote on Sunday. “The battles we fought together. The battles we fought against each other. The battles we fought side by side alone with our own demons. The battles we won and the battles we lost. He was my friend. He was our brother. My heart is broken. My world has changed.”

He went on to call him his “brother” in the touching tribute. “I’ll see you on the other side my friend,” he concluded. “Godspeed. My heart, my love, and my condolences go out to his family and loved ones. I’m so f—— sad. He will be missed.”