Saliva guitarist Wayne Sweeney died Wednesday, March 22, at the age of 59, after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage. His death was confirmed by the band’s representative and vocalist, Bobby Amaro, and other associates.
Prior to the news of Sweeney’s death, the band wrote on Facebook, “Our dear brother Wayne Sweeney was discovered Tuesday morning in a medical distress and the paramedics were called. He was taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with a spontaneous hemorrhage in his brain. He is currently in the intensive care unit while we await further news.” We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers at this time.”
On Wednesday, a rep for the band stated, “It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Wayne Sweeney, guitarist for Saliva. Wayne passed away this afternoon from a spontaneous cerebral hemorrhage while on tour.”
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Amaro wrote, “I’m not sure what to think or how to feel right now. My heart aches for Wayne’s family, friends, and anyone who ever had the joy of being around him. My heart aches for his daughter Nikki. He loved that little girl so much. He was a hero on stage guitar with all of us.” The rock and roll swag most guitar players dream of.”
He continued, “Off the stage he was a proud dad, an expert on ancient aliens, and an incredible human being with no enemies! He would go out of his way to make sure you had a good time. I’m grateful to have shared nearly 12 years of my life with Wayne on stage and more importantly outside.” Theatre. He was the biggest brother I’ve never had. I learned so much from him and we had a fucking blast together! I’m going to cherish it all for the rest of my life! God bless you, Wayne. I know we’ll meet again!!”
Sweeney founded Saliva in 1996, and remained with the band until his death. With original singer Josie Scott, Saliva had huge success in the 2000s with rock hits like “Your Disease”, “Click Click Boom”, “Always”, “Survival of the Sickest”, “Ladies and Gentleman” and more . Their second album, 2001 every six secondscertified platinum.
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Our condolences are with Wayne Sweeney’s family, friends and bandmates during this difficult time.
This is a developing story…
