Rock singer from the 80s loses fight against cancer – MassLive
Larry Gillstrom, the talented guitarist known for his work with Canadian hard rock band Kick Axe, has passed away at the age of 70 after a brave fight against cancer. The band announced the sad news via an Instagram post on August 11th, revealing that Gillstrom had maintained a positive and upbeat demeanor throughout his battle with the disease, even managing to perform at live shows with Kick Axe in 2024. The band shared that Gillstrom’s final performance took place in his hometown of Regina on November 23, 2024, where it all started. It was also mentioned that Gillstrom was actively involved in working on a new album with the band until his passing.
Kick Axe, formed in 1976, achieved prominence in the 1980s rock scene with their acclaimed 1984 album “Vices” and hit singles such as “Heavy Metal Shuffle,” “On the Road to Rock,” and “Rock the World.” One of their standout successes was the hard rock rendition of The Beatles’ classic “With a Little Help From My Friends,” performed in a style reminiscent of Joe Cocker’s iconic version. The band’s musical prowess and charisma garnered them the opportunity to tour with renowned acts like Judas Priest, Scorpions, Rush, Quiet Riot, Triumph, Metallica, and Whitesnake.
In honor of Gillstrom’s memory, Kick Axe urged fans to play their favorite Kick Axe songs or albums, keeping the rock spirit alive. The band expressed their deep loss, describing Gillstrom as a truly remarkable and inspirational individual who will be missed by family, friends, and fans worldwide. Details about a celebration of his life will be announced at a later date, allowing the music community to come together and pay their respects to the late guitarist.
The passing of Larry Gillstrom serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that music and artistry can have on people’s lives. As fans mourn the loss of a talented musician and cherished member of the rock community, his legacy lives on through the powerful melodies and anthems he created with Kick Axe. The band’s dedication to their craft and connection with fans underscores the enduring influence of rock music, uniting generations in a shared love for the timeless genre. Larry Gillstrom’s musical journey may have come to an end, but his spirit and passion for rock ‘n’ roll will resonate for years to come, inspiring future generations to keep the music alive and Stay On The Road To Rock Forever.