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Remy Zero Drummer Gregory Slay Dies at 40

Remy ZeroFormer Remy Zero drummer Gregory Slay passed away New Year's Day following a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis. He was 40.

In spite of the illness, Slay found immediate success with the Birmingham, Ala.-based band when the group's demo famously landed in the hands of Radiohead, who were so impressed they invited Remy Zero to join them on their 'Bends' tour. From there, Remy Zero went on to record three albums, scoring hit singles with 1998's 'Prophecy' and 2001's 'Save Me.' The latter would be their last hit; they disbanded in 2003. While there was talk of reuniting in 2006, the band decided to make the hiatus permanent and continue with their individual projects.

For Slay, that meant working on his own music as Sleepwell and various other projects, including his Emmy-nominated work on the theme song for the television series 'Nip/Tuck.' He also worked frequently with his former Remy Zero band mates, most recently teaming up with guitarist Jeffrey Cain on an album produced for Mobile, Ala. musician Eliot Morris called 'All Things In Time.'

The strong bond between the group is evidenced by the statement they issued on Slay's passing.

"Our beloved friend, partner, brother, master musician, beautiful artist -- passed away this morning, January 1, 2010. He was in a peaceful place and surrounded by his family. We are so grateful for the time we were allowed with each other and for the wonderful opportunity to create with him for so many years. Gregory inspired all who had the chance to see him perform, to hear the music that he made or just to be around his bountiful spirit. He will be greatly missed.With our deepest love ... Jeffrey Cain, Cedric LeMoyne, Cinjun Tate and Shelby Tate -- the members of Remy Zero."

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Rampton

I still cant believe he is gone. I worked with Greg and Remy Zero for a few years and I can honestly say he was the most amzing human being, probably one of the kindest, gentlest, friendliest souls I have ever met. I am glad to read so many beautiful comments from people who have met him, knew him, grew up with or worked with him. All of us know that he was a very, very special man and my heart goes out to Tiana and his family. Goodnight and God bless you greg, thankyou for enriching my world. Will always love you my friend.

January 28 2010 at 2:02 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
MB

Man this is so sad! I was fortunate to do the internet marketing for the Golden Hum and meet them a few times. I was lucky enough to see them at the Viper Room a show I will never forget. Villa Elaine is one of my favorite albums of all time. Rest in Peace Brother. If anyone knows where there are tabs for the song "Hermes Bird" I would really appreciate it especially now. None of the guitar sites have it. Anyways this is a terrible loss!

January 19 2010 at 7:11 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
tony

Greg was in the greatest band many people have never heard of. Loppybogymi was the most talented and influential band ive ever had the privilege to see live. he was so inspirational and powerful behind the set. you will be missed Greg. LOWASFUCK forever!!! R.I.P.

January 06 2010 at 6:35 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
chris stratas

Greg's mother was my music teacher in grade school. Their entire family seemed to be immerced in the music world from birth.
Greg was a friend of my older brother in middle school and i went to school with his younger brother, Chris.
I did not know him personally but had a deep respect for his musical talent.
He recently friended me on facebook and thought it was cool to have him say hello after all these years.
sorry to see him pass at such a young age.
R.I.P.

January 06 2010 at 4:37 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
bharat

Remy zero is stil my favourite band..back in college when i would complete a painting..i would write 'Remy zero' in th bottom corner...jst to honour ths band...once i made a mural tht was postd on stage of our college's cultural festival..nd beneath it..it was written 'Remy Zero'...their lyrics were exceptional ..rich in mythological nd modern imagery...nd their assertive rythm sets them apart frm any other band..rest in peace greg...'if u'd hide your songs wud die...so i'd hide yours with mine'

January 06 2010 at 3:59 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Guysbigbutt

People shouldnt have to DONATE for medical research! Money should be given by the government, instead of throwing away billions on some stupid war for oil!!! F--- THIS COUNTRY!!

January 05 2010 at 10:22 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Chode Smoker

what a fkn asshole, way to bring in politics dick

January 05 2010 at 2:16 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Chode Smoker

Love the band, some of these songs would make me think so hard I'd cry. Thanks guys for helping me through my times of need, thanks for all you've shared Greg...RIP

January 05 2010 at 2:13 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
William Hunsberger

Cystic Fibrosis.........It is a very sad, sad disease. It is a disease that you are born with. The average life expectancy of someone with CF is 30. From birth you have to do breathing treatment 3 times a day. There is a buildup of fluid in the lungs and people that are diagnosed with CF can not get rid of the fluid on there own. The breathing treatments help them get rid of this fluid. Now people with CF can put a vest on that pumps on the chest to get rid of the fluid. The breathing treatments are much easier now with this new technology. I lost a very dear friend to CF last year. He was 27.

January 05 2010 at 12:28 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
blair shotts

I grew up in Mobile, Al. and had the pleasure to watch him perform many times at places like the culture shock, the american legion, the nightowl, etc... Greg, Tim and James inspired me beyond any words can express. The last time I saw him,,, he came up and gave me a big hug after he played a set at Satori in Mobile { 2007 I think }. The guy was a real sweetheart and he and accomplished so much.. I have always found so much inspiration in his story. Let us all celebrate his time here and all of the great art he left us!!

January 04 2010 at 11:26 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply