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CJ SNARE, the singer of Firehouse, has died of cancer. He was 64.

Snare co-founded the band in Richmond, Virginia, in 1984. They went on to have a number of hits at the height of hair metal’s popularity, including “All She Wrote”, “Reach For The Sky”, “Love Of A Lifetime” and “Don’t Treat Me Bad”.

While mainly regarded as a domestically-popular US band, Firehouse also enjoyed breakout success in Asia with their songs heard on radio in countries such as Thailand.

Snare was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in 2020 and recently underwent abdominal surgery which resulted in him being unable to tour, although he was expected to return to the stage this year.

Firehouse guitarist Bill Leverty Tweeted: “Absolutely devastated. Please keep his family in your prayers. Rest in peace Brother CJ. Your great music will live forever.”

The band Warrant said on social media: “He was not just a talent and friend, but also a loved, appreciated and brilliant part of our collective touring past. Deepest condolences and sympathy for his loved ones, family, band and fans.”

Kip Winger said: “CJ was one of the most kind-hearted beautiful people I ever met. He was like family. A huge loss to the world.”

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Steve Mascord

Author Steve Mascord

Steve came up with the name of Hot Metal magazine in 1989 and worked for the magazine in its early years. He is HM's editor and proprietor in 2022.

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