Renowned Hatebreed guitarist Wayne Lozinak has announced a temporary exit from the band following the alarming discovery of a non-cancerous brain tumor. This unexpected health situation has prompted a wave of concern among fans and the band alike, as they rally in support of Lozinak during this challenging time.
The band shared the news regarding Lozinak’s health on their official social media platforms on Tuesday, June 17. The post revealed that the guitarist initially experienced “mild symptoms that raised concerns of a possible stroke” during their performance at England’s Download Festival on Saturday, June 14. This alarming incident underscored the importance of immediate medical attention in situations involving potential neurological issues.
“Out of an abundance of caution, he sought medical attention the following day upon arriving in Lille, France,” the band’s update explained. Following a thorough evaluation, including a CT scan at the emergency room, doctors discovered a brain tumor, resulting in his immediate admission for additional testing. This timely medical response highlights the critical nature of addressing health concerns without delay, particularly when symptoms suggest neurological problems.
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Following an exhaustive 24-hour evaluation, which included an MRI, medical professionals determined that the tumor is a benign meningioma—a slow-growing mass that has likely been present for several years without causing significant symptoms. The band expressed their immense relief upon learning that Wayne’s diagnosis was the most favorable outcome possible under the circumstances, allowing for optimism regarding his health moving forward.
Currently, Lozinak is in the process of returning to the U.S. to prepare for surgery and to focus on his necessary rest and recovery. He has expressed his determination to rejoin the band as soon as he is able, showcasing his commitment to his craft and his fans. In his absence, the band has announced that Matt Bachand from Shadows Fall will step in to fill Lozinak’s role, ensuring that Hatebreed continues to perform during this challenging time.
Notably, Bachand has been part of Hatebreed since November 2024, having taken over from bassist Chris Beattie after his departure from the band. In a statement released in February, Beattie clarified that “the decision to leave the band was not mine,” citing “misleading and wrongful statements” as contributing factors to his exit. This context adds a layer of complexity to the band dynamics, illustrating the challenges faced by the group.
Hatebreed also announced that Carl Schwartz from First Blood has now assumed the role of bassist following Bachand’s transition to guitar. This lineup change reflects the adaptability of the band in overcoming obstacles while maintaining their momentum in the music industry.
Hatebreed was formed in Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1994 and released their debut album three years later, marking the beginning of their journey in the hardcore metal scene. They gained widespread acclaim with the release of their 2002 album Perseverance, which reached No. 50 on the Billboard 200. The band also received a Grammy nomination for best metal performance in 2004, solidifying their place in heavy music history.
Their subsequent albums continued to build on their initial success, with 2013’s The Divinity of Purpose emerging as their most commercially successful release, peaking at No. 20 on the Billboard chart and topping the Top Hard Rock Albums chart. Their latest album, 2020’s Weight of the False Self, marked a significant moment as it became their first album not to chart on the Billboard 200 since their debut, although it still achieved a peak position of No. 12 on the Hard Rock Albums chart, demonstrating their enduring appeal.
Hatebreed is currently on their Weight of the False Self Tour, which is making its way through Europe at present. The tour includes a series of dates across the U.K. and North America, scheduled to continue until October. This tour serves not only as a platform for their music but also as a testament to the band’s resilience and dedication to their fans despite the current challenges.
