Saliva Guitarist Wayne Swinny Dead at 59

Memphis rockers Saliva officially confirmed the death of their guitarist, Wayne Swinny, last night. The 59-year-old guitarist died of a spontaneous brain hemorrhage while Saliva were on tour.

The band issued an official statement:

“It is with great sadness that we report the passing of our brother Wayne Swinny. Wayne passed away this afternoon from a Spontaneous brain hemorrhage while we were out on tour. Details for the funeral arrangements will be announced shortly. Wayne will be missed by all those who knew him.

“We love you Wayne”

Singer Bobby Amaru gave a more emotional tribute to Swinny, recalling their long friendship.

“I’m not even sure what to think or how to feel right now. My heart aches for Wayne’s family, his friends, and anyone who had the joy of being around him. My heart aches for his daughter Nikki. He loved that little girl so much … He would go out of his way to make sure you had a good time. I’m grateful that I got to share almost 12 years of my life with Wayne on the stage and most importantly off the stage.

“He was the older brother I never had. I learned so much from him and we had a fucking blast together! I will cherish it all for the rest of my life! God Bless you Wayne. I know we’ll meet again!!”

Swinny was a founding member of Saliva, beginning the band in 1996. He performed with them for the entirety of their existence—helping drive the band to massive radio rock hits like “Click Click Boom” and “Always”— and was the only remaining original member of the band. On Tuesday night, Saliva posted an update that Swinny had sustained a spontaneous brain hemorrhage and was in the ICU.

MetalSucks sends our condolences to Swinny’s family and friends.