The Black Dahlia Murder announced that their frontman Trevor Strnad died on their official Instagram account. Also, Brandon Ellis, Mike Portnoy, Alex Skolnick, and Alissa White-Gluz mourned after his death.
Strnad, guitarists Brian Eschbach and Jon Kemppainen, bassist David Lock and drummer Cory Grady co-founded The Black Dahlia Murder in 2001 after being inspired by the unsolved murder of Elizabeth Short. The band released their debut studio album ‘Unhallowed’ on June 17, 2003.
The album got critical acclaim, and both the band and its singer became more and more popular among metalheads. Eight more records followed it, and almost all of them became popular with their extraordinary and unique style. However, they had to give the bad news to their fans this time.
On May 11, 2022, Strnad passed away at 41. Even though the cause of death is still unknown, the band’s adding National Suicide Prevention Lifeline while sharing their deepest sadness drew attention. His bandmate, Ellis, stated that working with a funny and fantastic person like Strnad was an honor.
Along with him, Portnoy and Skolnick, with whom he collaborated for ‘The Accuser’ as a part of Metal Allegiance, paid tribute to the singer, saying that they were devastated by the news. Alissa White-Gluz added she was pleased to share the stage with him by describing him as a talented sweetheart.
The band’s IG post read:
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Trevor Scott Strnad. Beloved son, brother, and Shepard of good times, he was loved by all that met him. A walking encyclopedia of all things music.
He was a hugger, a writer, and truly one of the world’s greatest entertainers. His lyrics provided the world with stories and spells and horror and whimsy. It was his life to be your show.”
Here’s what Brandon Ellis wrote:
“I can not even begin to process this. I’m in total shock and disbelief. It has been my greatest honor to spend the last six and a half years in a band with this absolute icon and legend. A brother. A best friend. One of the funniest and most entertaining people to walk the earth. The life of the party that is The Black Dahlia Murder, as well as any given room he happens to occupy.
A lyrical mastermind. A champion of the entire culture of heavy music. Also, my biggest supporter. This man changed my life and believed in me more than I do myself. I can not believe there will be no more laughs had, songs written together, or stages decimated with Trevor at the helm. I hope he knew how much he was loved the world over.
Rest in peace, Trevor.”
Mike Portnoy added:
“Absolutely shocked to hear of the passing of Trevor Strnad of The Black Dahlia Murder. Trevor was part of the Metal Allegiance family, having sung on our song ‘The Accuser’ as well as joining us for shows in 2018 & 2019. My deepest condolences to his bandmates, friends & family.”
Alex Skolnick paid his tribute, saying:
“Totally shocking news. Truly great guy/artist. Testament was supposed to tour with the band (derailed by COVID), and it was a blast to work with him in Metal Allegiance. Huge loss. RiP Trevor.”
Alissa White-Gluz’s IG post read as follows:
“Shocked. What a sweetheart Trevor is, and so talented too. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans. Trevor, it was an honor and pleasure to share the stage with you. Rock in power.”
You can check out the posts below.
Photo Credit: Brandon Ellis – Instagram
Photo Credit: Alissa White-Gluz – Instagram
