In The News

Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman passes away

Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman passes away

THE rock guitarist Jeff Hanneman, who co-founded thrash metal band Slayer, has passed away aged 49.

Mr. Hanneman had battled ill-health since 2011 after contracting a flesh-eating disease reportedly after being bitten by a spider. He passed away at a hospital in California where had been receiving treatment for liver complaint.

The musician had co-founded Slayer with Kerry King and since the 1980s the band has been one of the most popular metal bands — releasing nine studio albums as well as performing around the world.

The guitarist was proud of the fact that he was a self-taught musician. “I think I took lessons for about week”, he revealed in an interview with ESP Guitars, (see below). 

His death shocked the metal music world with many tributes being paid by fellow musicians and fans.

Neil Portnow, president of The Recording Academy, described Mr. Hanneman as “an intense and powerful guitarist” who was “a force to be reckoned with on stage”.

He continued: “The music industry has lost a true trailblazer, and our deepest sympathies go out to his family, his bandmates and fans around the world who mourn this untimely passing.”

In a statement on their website, Slayer said they were devastated to have to inform fans about the death. The site carried the tribute: Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964—2013).

Mr. Hanneman is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and brothers Michael and Larry.

To view an interview Jeff Hanneman gave to ESP Guitars, click here.

To see Slayer perform Born To Be Wild, click here.

To see Slayer in action at Sonisphere 2010, click here.

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