What Led To Kevin DuBrow’s Death? The Story Behind Quiet Riot Frontman’s Sudden Passing

Kevin DuBrow was the lead singer of Quiet Riot and played a big role in their success during the 1980s (per Chron) with his strong voice and stage presence. Tragically, though, DuBrow died in 2007 at the age of 52. But what was his cause of death?

The Vocalist Was Positive About His Future

DuBrow rose to fame as part of Quiet Riot in the 1980s following the release of ‘Metal Health,’ which was the first heavy metal album to reach number one in the US charts, according to Classic Rock. While he contributed greatly to the band’s music through the years, the singer’s outspoken behavior and issues with substance use created conflicts, leading to his firing in 1987.

He rejoined the lineup in the 1990s, the outlet further wrote, and was enthusiastic about his work with the group but his drug use continued to be a problem in his life. Despite that, the vocalist seemed healthy and happy when Quiet Riot wrapped up a tour in San Jose on November 4, 2007.

He Was Found Dead Days Later

Bad news arrived on November 25 that year. Rolling Stone reported that DuBrow was found dead in his Las Vegas home hours after his bandmates and girlfriends tried to reach out to him. Police estimated he had been dead for about six days before being found.

According to the outlet’s report, bandmate Kelli Garni tried to contact DuBrow after finding out that his house was broken into but didn’t get an answer. Several other attempts from the singer’s two girlfriends also failed, causing one of them to ask a paramedic friend to check on him.

His Cause Of Death Was…

The paramedic entered DuBrow’s home to find him lying dead on his own bed. Officers found no signs of foul play and initially ruled out an accident. But autopsy results from the Clark County coroner later confirmed the Quiet Riot frontman died of a cocaine overdose (via Classic Rock). Frankie Banali described his bandmate’s passing as an accidental result of his lifestyle, according to the outlet.

These days Jizzy Pearl takes on the vocals in Quiet Riot with Rudy Sarzo on bass, Alex Grossi on guitar, and Johnny Kelly on drums. The band has two more dates ahead to conclude their 2024 tour this month.