For the better part of the past decade, iconic punk rockers X have spent their time on the road, teasing, yet not releasing any new material. Despite the band's renaissance and connection with a new generation, there's some bad news to come from their camp today. Guitarist Billy Zoom has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of bladder cancer ahead of the band's shows at the Observatory this weekend. Zoom will play as the band will play each of their four albums (Los Angeles, Wild Gift, Under the Big Black Sun and More Fun in the New World) during this four night stint.
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This isn't the guitarist's first bout with cancer. Back in 2010, Zoom successfully beat prostate cancer. After undergoing a radical prostatectomy, that form of cancer was caught in its early stages and he was given the green light that he was in the clear.
The 67-year-old musician/producer will begin chemo treatment next week to combat the disease. The aggressive form of cancer requires immediate attention. After the band's show at the Observatory, they'll continue their summer tour, albeit without the guitar player. X plans on announcing a replacement shortly.
Here's the official statement from the band:
“In the music community, we all take turns helping each other.
Punk rock and benefits: you name the cause, and the bands and fans will be there.
Now it's our turn to help Billy Zoom, the wittiest, smartest, nicest, best guitar player N friend we know. We would do anything to help him get better, help take care of his family, and lessen his woes.
Please keep Billy in your prayers and send some positive energy his way!
Donating a few bucks will take away some of his financial stress and worry.
And it's the punk rock thing to do.”
There's a GoFundMe site set up to help fund his treatment. You can go here if you'd like to contribute.
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Daniel Kohn is a writer based in Southern California. With bylines in an assortment of outlets, Kohn primarily specializes in music with other interests ranging from sports to food. As a transplant, Kohn loves the beautiful weather and is glad he no longer has to deal with brutal winters. If you see him, say hi and of course, he’s always willing to down a beer or two…if you’re paying.