Frankie Banali became the second member of popular heavy metal bands Quiet Riot to die after Kevin DuBrow died back in 2007. Banali’s wife, Regina, confirmed the news that the drummer died after battling cancer for more than a year.
The W.A.S.P drummer revealed last year in October that he was diagnosed with a fatal disease, a stage-IV pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed in April 2019 but admitted to his fans later in October. The family statement mentioned that the drummer put an inspiring battle against the deadly disease fro 16-month-long but couldn’t survive at the end.
It is with heavy heart that I share the news of Frankie Banali’s passing. Please read his wife’s Regina’s statement. pic.twitter.com/B7YrhdvE1I
— Mitch Lafon (@mitchlafon) August 21, 2020
Banali took his last breath in Los Angeles at 7:18 PM on August 20. The underlying disease made him weak, and the chemotherapy stopped working. A series of stroke also made the drummer’s health condition vulnerable. His daughter and wife were by his side during his dying moments.
Even though he had garnered fame through the Metal Health-era Quiet Riot, he wasn’t the founding member. He debuted during the band’s third album titled Metal Health in 1983. Quiet Riot’s line-up has changed through the years, but Banali stuck with the band until his death. Banali reportedly collaborated with another heavy metal band, W.A.S.P and played the drums for 1989’s album, The Headless Child.
He was one of the finest drummers of the time and has inspired many aspiring drummers like John Bonham and Buddy Rich.
Rest in Peace, Frankie.
