Leeway singer Eddie Sutton dead at 59 after cancer battle

Eddie Sutton, the lead singer of the iconic New York City band Leeway, has passed away at the age of 59 after bravely battling lung cancer.

Sutton, known for his influential role in punk metal, peacefully departed in his sleep on Friday, April 19, 2024, as announced on Instagram.

Despite facing health challenges, Sutton had been scheduled to perform at the upcoming This Is Hardcore Festival in Philadelphia.

In late March 2024, he transitioned to hospice care due to complications arising from his cancer diagnosis.

In a post last month, Sutton expressed his determination to keep hope alive despite his hospice care status. His fight against cancer began over two years ago and has been marked by resilience and a love for performing.

In a 2022 interview with Blabbermouth, Sutton candidly discussed his battle with cancer, revealing its origins in his right lung and the presence of masses in his left kidney and brain.

While Sutton maintained a positive outlook and continued to perform, he remained realistic about his prognosis, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

Leeway, under Sutton’s leadership, had plans for a new tour later this year, spanning venues in New York City and Europe. However, those plans are now overshadowed by Sutton’s passing.

A wake in honor of Sutton is scheduled for April 23, allowing fans to pay their respects and celebrate his enduring legacy.

Following news of Sutton’s death, fans flooded social media with tributes, recognizing his fearless presence and transformative impact on hardcore music.

“A fearless, game-changing frontman… Eddie’s presence and voice altered the course of hardcore music for the better forever. There will never be another like him,” tweeted Hardlore, echoing the sentiments of many mourning Sutton’s loss.