Greg Lee, a key member of the popular California trad-ska band Hepcat, passed away at 53 on March 19th. The news was shared on social media by his partner, Amanda Becker.
According to Becker’s Instagram post, Greg Lee suffered a severe brain aneurysm at their home in Paramount, CA, on Sunday, March 17, followed by a cardiac arrest.
Greg Lee’s Wife Amanda Becker Recalled The Death Incident Via An Instagram Post
Amanda Becker unveiled the incident about Greg Lee’s sudden death saying. “I found him on the floor unconscious and not breathing, 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.”
Becker continued, “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.”
Hepcat, formed in 1989, drew inspiration from ska’s early days in the 1960s. They gained popularity with their third album, “Right on Time,” which featured hits like “No Worries” and earned them a spot on the Vans Warped Tour. Despite the losses of long-time band members David Fuentes and Aaron Owens in 2007 and 2012 respectively, Hepcat continued performing, albeit less frequently.
With Greg Lee’s passing the band has lost one more member, his death marks a significant loss for the music world, but his legacy will live on through his timeless music and the memories he created with fans worldwide.
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