Mike Howe, Lead Vocalist of Metal Church Who Performed on Badlands Dies at 55

Mike Howe, a heavy metal singer best known for his work with Metal Church, has died at the age of 55, the band has confirmed.

In a statement, Metal Church said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of our brother, our friend and real legend of heavy metal music.”

In Eureka, California, Mike Howe died away this morning at the age of 66. We are heartbroken and at a lost for words as a result of this tragedy. This is a really tough moment for us and for the Howe family.

Prior to joining Heretic, Howe sang for the Detroit band Hellion (later known as Snair after the band moved to Los Angeles).

Before Howe left to join Metal Church, the band issued their only full-length album, Breaking Point, in 1988.

He was the vocalist of Metal Church from 1988 until 1996, replacing the then-singer David Wayne, who left the group in 1988.

Metal Church’s lyrics have become increasingly political since Howe joined the band, as seen by hits like Blessing in Disguise and The Human Factor.

Prior to the band’s dissolution in 1995, Howe recorded three albums with them.

In 1991, Hall Aflame released Guaranteed Forever and Megora released Illusions.