Venom frontman Conrad "Cronos" Lant has died at 63.
The English heavy metal band – in which Lant served as bassist and vocalist alongside guitarist Stuart "Rage" Dixon and drummer Danny "Dante" Needham – announced the news in a social media post Thursday, Oct. 1.
"It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the news that Conrad 'Cronos' Lant has passed away," it began. "For more than four decades, Conrad’s voice, bass and vision were at the heart of VENOM. From the first dark rumblings of 'Welcome to Hell,' through 'Black Metal,' 'At War With Satan,' 'Possessed' and beyond, he created something that changed heavy music forever."
"VENOM never followed the rules. They forged their own path. And Conrad was there at the centre of it
all — uncompromising, fearless and unmistakable," the post continued.
"The Legions have always been an important part of VENOM. To everyone who stood with the band through the years, bought the records, came to the shows, wore the shirts, shared the music and kept the flame burning — Cronos was always grateful for your loyalty and support."
It also featured a touching message from the musician's son, Nathan Lant, which read, "I want to thank all of the Legions for all of the support you have given my dad over the years. I know he really appreciated you all. He has laid down his soul, and his music will live on. The legend of Cronos will never die.”
Who was Conrad 'Cronos' Lant?
Born in London, Lent, who went by the stage name Cronos, joined Venom as a guitarist at just 16. At the time, the group was called Guillotine, and they released their debut album, "Welcome to Hell," in 1981.
Except for three albums in the late '80s and early '90s, Lant was Venom's most consistent member and eventually became frontman. In May, they released their 16th studio album, "Into Oblivion," which would become Lant's last.
"His music will never die. His voice will never fade. And the legacy of VENOM will live on through the music he created and through the Legions around the world who continue to carry that flame," the social media tribute continued.
"Thank you, Conrad. Thank you, Cronos. Thank you for the music. Thank you for the memories. Our deepest love and condolences go to Nathan & Hel, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. REST IN PEACE, CONRAD. THE LEGEND LIVES ON 🖤 VENOM," concluded.
A cause of death has not been revealed.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Venom frontman Conrad 'Cronos' Lant dies at 63
