Wayne Richard Wells dies at 48. Wells better known as Wayne Static is dead, according to a statement issued by his band, Static-X. Wells passed away in his sleep in his California home, Saturday night.
Wayne Richard Wells also known as Wayne Static is dead at the age of 48. Wells was the frontman and founder of the California metal band, Static-X, along with Tony Campos and Koichi Fukuda in 1994.
The band released six albums, the most notable being 1999’s Wisconsin Death Trip, which went platinum. According to a statement issued by Static-X, Wayne Richard Wells died in his sleep, just three days before his 49th birthday.
But according to several reports, Wayne Richard Wells’ death might be linked to his well-chronicled battle with illegal substance abuse.
Many took to Twitter to remember Wayne Richard Wells including Papa Roach singer, Jacoby Shaddix, who suggested that drugs may have killed the star. Shaddix wrote:
“RIP Wayne. This is so sad. Too many musicians are dying from overdoses. I’m serious, addiction is real and takes fools out. No one is invincible. So glad I live a sober life today. The number of friends that I have lost to addiction is crazy… I know drugs and partying are part of the ‘rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle,’ but damn, how many more gotta die (sic)??? F**k the lifestyle, I want life!!!! See you on the other side, Wayne.”
The statement from Static-X read:
Static-X Founder Wayne Static
Passed Away At Age 48
November 1, 2014 – 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.
Wayne Richard Wells who played guitar, keyboards and was a programmer, was born in Michigan. In 1987, after moving to Chicago, Static created the band Deep Blue Dream with Ken Jay, bass player Eric Harris, and Billy Corgan.
After heading to California in 1994, the members of Deep Blue Dream parted ways and Static-X was formed, along with Tony Campos and Koichi Fukuda.
Static-X’ debut album Wisconsin Death Trip, which was released in 1999 was a hit. The group dropped their sixth and final album, Cult of Static, in 2009, and disbanded in June of 2013.
Wayne Richard Wells had been scheduled to tour with Powerman 5000 and Drowning Pool next month.
