Conrad “Cronos” Lant, the longtime singer and bassist of heavy metal band Venom, has died at the age of 63.
According to People, Lant’s bandmates announced his death on Venom’s Instagram on 1 October. They shared a collage of photos showing Cronos performing on stage and paid tribute to his lasting impact on his family, bandmates, fans and heavy metal.
“For more than four decades, Conrad’s voice, bass and vision were at the heart of VENOM,” the band wrote. “From the first dark rumblings of Welcome to Hell, through Black Metal, At War With Satan, Possessed and beyond, he created something that changed heavy music forever.”
The tribute added that Venom “never followed the rules” and “forged their own path”. It described Cronos as “uncompromising, fearless and unmistakable”.
The band also highlighted the loyalty of the “Legions”, its dedicated international fanbase. According to the tribute, the fans kept the flame burning and Cronos remained deeply grateful for their support.
The band also shared a message from Lant’s son, Nathan.
“I want to thank all of the Legions for all of the support you have given my dad over the years. I know he really appreciated you all. He has laid down his soul, and his music will live on. The legend of Cronos will never die,” Nathan said.
Lant helped establish Venom when the band formed in 1979. He initially played rhythm guitar alongside guitarist Jeffrey “Mantas” Dunn and drummer Anthony “Abaddon” Bray. He later switched to bass and became the lead singer after Clive Archer left the group in 1980.
Venom became a major force in heavy metal with albums including Welcome to Hell, Black Metal, At War With Satan and Possessed. The 1982 album Black Metal became particularly influential and gave its name to the black metal genre.
Although Venom formally split in 1988, Lant later revived the band with different line-ups. He continued performing with Venom until his death.
“His music will never die. His voice will never fade,” the band said in its tribute. “And the legacy of VENOM will live on through the music he created and through the Legions around the world who continue to carry that flame.”
