We are sad to report that Corrosion of Conformity drummer Reed Mullin has passed away at the age of 53. The band are old school Rock City favourites and last played here in 2018.
The blues-tinged, heavy metal band confirmed this morning on social media, saying:
“Reed, it’s with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a friend, a brother and a pioneer. Love and condolences to the family, friends and fans who will miss you and thanks for the music.”
One of the original members of CoC, Mullin co-founded the band with Mike Dean (bassist) and Woody Weatherman (guitarist) in 1982. Their original influences were the likes of Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath but also Black Flag and Minor Threat. Mullin appeared on their hardcore-punk oriented debut album Eye For An Eye (1984), and went on to share vocal duties on Animosity (1985). He continued, appearing on the sludge-metal leaning Blind (1991), the southern-rock infused Deliverance (1994), Wiseblood (1996) and America’s Volume Dealer (2000). Then he left the band in 2001 but returned in 2010, to appear on a further three albums – their self-titled release (2012), IX (2014) and No Cross No Crown (2018). He suffered a seizure whilst touring in 2012, and during their tour with Clutch and Lamb Of God in 2016 he had to leave after an prolonged alcohol addiction.
It’s with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a friend, a brother and pioneer. Reed you are loved and always will be. Lets all take a moment… pic.twitter.com/33HKp9tU7v
— C.O.C. (@coccabal) January 28, 2020
Mullin was a much-loved member of the rock community, and a hero to many people around the world. He co-founded the hardcore punk supergroup Teenage Time Killers, which also featured Dave Grohl, Corey Taylor and Randy Blythe. Today, tributes are pouring in from his friends, family and those he has influenced.
Faith No More’s Mike Patton said: “Damn! So sad to hear about my ol’ pal Reed Mullin. Rest in peace my friend.”
Ray Mayorga of Stone Sour gave his thoughts: “What an amazing drummer. He was definitely an influence and had a huge impact on myself and so many others. I remember the first time seeing him crush those drums so fast and powerful. He was epic!”
Listen to Corrosion Of Conformity below:
Our thoughts go out to his friends and family, as well as his legions of fans all over the world. Rock City mourns with you. RIP Reed Mullin 1966 – 2020 ??
