Greg Lee, the vibrant vocalist and frontman of veteran SoCal ska group Hepcat has unexpectedly passed. He died in his home yesterday. Partner Amanda Becker broke the news.
“Hello Everyone,
This is Mandie writing. I am about to share some unbelievable, heartbreaking news. Our dear friend, Gregory Lee, has left his earth body and joined the angels officially as of March 19th at 1pm.
Greg had a massive brain aneurysm followed by cardiac arrest late Sunday, March 17 in our home in Paramount.
I found him on the floor unconscious and not breathing. I immediately called for 911 and the first responders were through the door within moments. They were able to regain his pulse, but he was not able to breathe on his own. He has been on life support in the NICU ever since and has not regained consciousness. The neurologist let us know his case is very rare and that the moment was swift. He did not suffer.Greg is survived by his 4 children, Elsa, Vivienne, Khaleah, and our currently unnamed baby girl due in September. Also survived by his mother, Janice, his brothers, Michael, Steve, Tony, and sister, Jennifer. His children are his whole world.
Gregory will also live on in every piece of music he wrote and recorded, in every photo and video you took at a Hepcat show or scooter rally, and in every memory you have of him. To all of his loving friends and fans, I am so sorry for this monumental loss.
I do not have nearly enough superlatives to describe this incredible, beautiful, unique, and genuine man. My love.
He has touched the lives and hearts of so many people all around the world through music and travel. His songs with Hepcat helped so many of us in both joyous and even depressing times. He has inspired so many to create, dance, sing, and love. Myself included. His unique talents and presence will forever be unmatched. He is truly one-of-a-kind.
I will share more information as I am able and based on the wishes of his family.
I know you all will keep Gregory in your hearts and minds, play his songs, and raise your glass with respect and tip your brim…
No Worries, friends. No worries.
So Much Love to you all.”
SoCal ska legends The Upbeat offered their heartfelt condolences on Instagram, “A man of utmost stage confidence, and a swooning voice that gave all the Rudies that ska feeling that we long for, he will be missed dearly”. Rest in Power, Greg.
