We are heartbroken to announce that Riley Gale, frontman of Texas thrashers Power Trip, has died. The band has confirmed this news via a letter on their Twitter. He was 34 years old.
The band released the following letter via their Twitter account tonight:
“Dear Power Trip fans worldwide,
It is with the greatest of sadness we must announce that our lead singer and brother Riley Gale passed away last night.
Riley was a friend, a brother, a son. Riley was both a larger than life rock star and a humble and giving friend. He touched so many lives through his lyrics and through his huge heart. He treated everyone he met as a friend and he always took care of his friends. We will celebrate Riley’s life and never forget the great works of music, charity, and love that he left behind. You, the fans, meant so much to him, please know how special you are. If you have a memory of Riley please share it, no matter how small, as we remember him.
Please respect our wishes for privacy during this time. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Dallas Hope Charities, the link to donate directly is here.
Signed,
– Riley’s Loving Family
P.S. Funeral and visitation arrangements are pending.”
— POWER TRIP (@powertriptx) August 26, 2020
For the world of modern metal, this is devastating. Power Trip have over the last ten years gone from underground phenomenon to massive success story, an example of how a band with an unremitting sound and live show could rise to the top of the metal scene on their raw talent alone. So much of this came from Gale, whose pummeling live performances, outspoken political beliefs, and friendly relationship with his fans made him the kind of musician you wanted to support in any way you could.
Everyone at The Pit sends their hearts out to Riley’s friends, family, bandmates and fans during this difficult time. More on this story as it come.
***
Words by Chris Krovatin
