Punk rock icons Social Distortion postpone their Summer Tour, and album release, to give Mike time to recover.
In a heartfelt statement made yesterday, Mike Ness, the frontman of the iconic punk rock band Social Distortion, shared the news of his battle with tonsil cancer. The revelation was made public through a post on the band’s official website, where Ness expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support from fans and loved ones.
In the statement, Ness described the diagnosis as “a life-changing moment” but emphasised his determination to fight the disease and expressed his appreciation for the support he has received. “I am focused on the path ahead and am lucky to have the support of my family, friends, band, and all of you,” he wrote.
Ness went on to explain that his treatment for tonsil cancer began in January, and since then, he has been committed to fighting the disease and maintaining a positive outlook. “I am working closely with my doctors and following their advice and treatment plan,” Ness shared. “I remain hopeful and optimistic for a full recovery.”
Mike also announced the postponement of the band’s summer tour, and their new album release, as he requires time to heal.
“I can’t thank our loyal fans enough who have been waiting so patiently for this. While it will take a little longer-I promise you that it will be delivered and it will exceed your expectations.
“I want you all to know that this has opened my eyes to a whole new struggle. I know it’s one that many of you or your loved ones have personally endured, and my heart goes out to you-because I now know what it’s like from this heavy experience.”
Read Full Statement Here
The punk rock community has quickly rallied around Ness, with countless fans and fellow musicians sending their love and support. The outpouring of encouragement is a testament to Social Distortion’s impact on the punk scene over the past four decades.
Despite the challenges Ness is facing, he remains committed to Social Distortion and their fans. “I look forward to seeing you all again soon at a Social Distortion show,” Ness said.
We, at Punktuation Mag send our thoughts and support to Mike Ness and his family during this difficult time and wish him a speedy recovery.
Follow Social Distortion on Their Socials
Need more Punk In Your Life?
From Post-Punk to Present Tense, Vision Meets Violets in Leeds’ Gothic Temple
Leeds’ music scene breaths grit. Warehouse raves, postpunk rebellions and goth nights have been its lifeblood for decades. The Warehouse hosted Vision Video and The
Punk, Putin and Pussy Riot – Maria Alyokhina speaks out in The Hague
On 26th June 2025, Maria Alyokhina brought her Riot Days show to het Paard venue in The Hague, The Netherlands. Before the concert, Pussy Riot
Album review: Fantazmaz unleash their self-titled debut!
If you’ve seen Fantazmaz live, you’ll know that the mostly-Brazilian London-based quartet are less a band than a force of nature. This album was recorded
Live review: Los Fastidios – Medley, Malmö, Sweden 26th June 2025
Italian street punks Los Fastidios might very well be the hardest touring band on the scene, clocking in at an astonishing +100 gigs a year.
Punk women reunite – make sure you catch this unmissable upcoming gig in London!
Three bands, fronted by three women Punk vocalists, will reunite on Sunday 6th July, to celebrate almost 50 years of friendship! Zillah Minx (Rubella Ballet),
Live review: Mexican, Israeli and Utrecht punk in Dutch Hilversum
Venue Hillyweird in Hilversum, the Netherlands, announced a concert on 19th June 2025 by Pissebed from Utrecht, Holocausts, from Israel, and Los Intrusos from Mexico.
I’m a London born and bred music journalist, a mediocre bass player and the occasional strummer of the guitar. In the ’80s I worked in recording studios and made a few records you’d probably recognise. I have written a couple of books and made the odd media appearance as a music commentator. I now call Brisbane home.
Did you know that we are 100% DIY? We run our own game. No one dictates to us, and no one drives what we can or cannot put on our pages – and this is how we plan to continue!
