Headline News

Former Y&T Drummer Leonard Haze Passes Away

Former Y&T drummer Leonard Haze has passed away at the age of 61 after suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The drummer co-wrote such songs as "Hurricane" and "Black Tiger" and was scheduled to support Y&T at two Californian shows with his band Hazexperience. Y&T vocalist Dave Meniketti broke the news with an online post that read:

"It is with shock and sadness that I type this. Leonard Haze, the legendary drummer, and a guy I spent decades with creating great music together, has passed away at 61.

"This, just a few days after his birthday. I just woke up to this news, as I'm in Germany, and immediately called his wife, Kelly. She confirmed that Leonard had passed away in his sleep sometime between noon and 7.30pm on Sunday, September 11.

"Leonard has been struggling with COPD for years, but Kelly said that although his health had recently declined, they felt he had a few years left, so this is unexpected.

"My deepest condolences to Leonard's family and friends. His impact on the rock scene was well documented. Rest in peace, my friend."

Hazexperience singer Jeff Winslow added: "Leonard was a good friend, a great drummer, and a true ambassador for the world of rock'n'roll. I'm shocked that he's gone, but thankful I got to know him while he was here."