Sidney McCray aka ‘SidMac’ the original lead singer & co-founder of the U.S. punk band Bad Brains passed on September 9. The news was first shared by McCray’s family on the band’s Facebook page, along with a link to a GoFundMe campaign in an effort to raise money for a memorial service.
“He is remembered and loved by seven children, family, friends, his former band members and a host of loyal fans,” a part of the campaign reads.
No cause of death has been reveal at this stage.
Bad Brains were originally a jazz-fusion band called Mind Power before McCray, their vocalist, introduced bandmate Darryl Jennifer to punk.
Although McCray was only in the band for a very brief amount of time (1977-1978) and was not featured on any Bad Brains albums, his influence was crucial and long-lasting. In the documentary surrounding Bad Brains’ frontman H.R. – Finding Joseph I – he said that he credits McCray with introducing him to punk rock.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Sid.
Everyone should have a soundtrack playing loudly in the background of their life. I was born moshing to my own beat and have never swayed from my love of music. Spreading my passion through the written word is my soul’s purpose. My punk heart beats loudly with the rhythm of my rock soul. I plan to continue to mosh like no one gives a shit.
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