The Rev, dead at 28, December 28th, 2009

James Owen "The Rev" Sullivan was the drummer for the band "Avenged Sevenfold". Sullivan was found dead in his home on December 28, 2009. His death was reported as due to natural causes. The results of the autopsy performed on December 30, 2009, however, were inconclusive. Further tests are pending. Soon after his passing, the band made the following statement:

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time.
Jimmy you are foREVer in our hearts. We love you."

—M Shadows, Synyster Gates, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ
On January 5, 2010, a private funeral was held for Sullivan, and a day later he was buried in an undisclosed location.

The band is currently working on a tribute album for the Rev with Mike Portnoy, Sullivan's "all time favourite drummer". Portnoy said “I want their fans to realize that I'm not trying to step into or fill The Rev's shoes...I'm just merely lacing 'em up for him!"

Ronnie James Dio, dead at 67, May 16th, 2010

Ronnie James Dio, whose soaring vocals, poetic lyrics and mythic tales of a never-ending struggle between good and evil broke new ground in heavy metal, died Sunday, according to a statement from his wife and manager. He was 67.

Paul Dedrick Grey, Dead at 38, May 24th, 2010

A hotel employee who found bassist for Slipknot, Paul Grey, dead in his hotel room Monday, made the 911 call, telling the operator Grey's hands and legs were purple and he was slumped in a corner with bottles of pills scattered around, as reported by The Des Moines Register.

Slipknot was formed in 1995.