At this point in his career, Dave Lombardo needs no introduction to fans. As the founding drummer of Slayer, Dave took the band’s ripping satanism to new heights of technical legitimacy with his madcap Latin-influenced drumming. Today, he currently sits behind the kit for Suicidal Tendencies, Mr. Bungle, and when it works out, the original line-up of the Misfits. But Dave, like all of us, is human, and unfortunately it appears that over the holidays, his mother passed away. Now, Dave has posted a tribute to her on his Instagram, and it’s both sweet and incredibly sad.
“These are the most difficult words I’ve ever had to write,” Dave wrote in a gallery post on his Instagram. “On Dec. 26th 2021, my amazing mom, Nicelia Irene Lombardo (aka “China”) passed away. She was 89 years old. Her last days were met with much pain and exhaustion. She was a strong and brave woman, not just in the end, but throughout her journey. She was my first fan. Supportive from the very first note. From spoons, pots and pans, to arenas. My favorite producer. Always encouraging my musical endeavors. We will all miss her positive spirit, jokes and daily phone calls. We love you dearly, Mima. Rest Peacefully.”
View this post on Instagram
Everyone at The Pit sends their heart out to Dave and the rest of the Lombardo family during this difficult time.
***
Words by Chris Krovatin
