Jon Wysocki, the founding drummer of Staind and later member of SOiL, has died at the age of 53. Wysocki, who left Staind in 2011 and subsequently joined SOiL, reportedly passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024. While he was known to have battled liver problems, the exact cause of his death has not been disclosed.
SOiL paid tribute to Wysocki on social media, stating, “Today we lost one of the greats. Jon Wysocki was not only a great friend, a great drummer, but a great human being. It was an honor to have him in SOiL for the time we did. We had so many laughs, so many good times. You will be missed dearly. Until we meet again dear friend.”
Nu-metal band Staind also shared their condolences, remembering their early days with Wysocki. “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.
“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.”
Despite the circumstances that led to Wysocki’s departure from Staind, frontman Aaron Lewis expressed that he would have welcomed him back with open arms. In a heartfelt tribute, the 52-year-old singer shared his deep sorrow and described Wysocki as a brother.
“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.
“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.
“I’ll see you on the other side my friend. My brother. Godspeed. My heart, my love, and my condolences go out to his family and loved ones. I’m so f***ing sad. He will be missed.”
Jon Wysocki’s impact on the music world and his contributions to both Staind and SOiL will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike. His legacy as a talented drummer and cherished friend endures.
