Very sad news to report: Brian O’Connor, best known as the bassist for Eagles of Death Metal, has been diagnosed with cancer, and is undergoing treatment in Los Angeles. Even worse, the musician does not have medical insurance to cover necessary surgery and subsequent chemotherapy.
On the plus, Brian O’Connor is the bassist for Eagles of Death and, because of this, has quite a few high-profile friends who are now coming to his aid.
First and foremost, Them Crooked Vultures, the super group featuring Dave Grohl, Josh Homme, and John Paul Jones, have announced plans for two separate benefit shows in London and Los Angeles. The former will take place on July 5th at the Brixton Academy. Details for the Los Angeles show are being finalized now and will be announced soon.
What’s more, The Dead Weather/Queen of the Stone Age’s Dean Fertita will fill in for O’Connor so that Eagles of Death Metal can carry on with all upcoming tour dates, starting tonight with a performance in Toronto.
Friends with benefits, indeed.
O’Connor released the following statement:
“In regards to my current health situation, with the remarkable support and love from my amazing friends and family, I am receiving the best medical and moral attention one could ask for. I cannot thank everyone enough for their continued support and involvement. I am excited for my full recovery and look forward to getting back to what I love most, melting face with my bass. I’m feeling great, after all, I am half unicorn. Keep ya posted.”
If you’d like to contribute to Brian’s medical care fund please visit pablove.org.
Eagles of Death Metal 2010 Tour Dates:
06/16 – Toronto, ON @ Phoenix (NXNE)
06/18 – Santa Cruz, CA @ ?The Catalyst
06/19 – San Francisco, CA @ Cannabis Cup at Mezzanine
06/28 – New Orleans, LA @ One Eyed Jacks
07/23 – Jackson, MI @ Land of NOD Experiment
08/11 – Sturgis, SD @ Rock N Rev 2010
