Hatebreed Guitarist Diagnosed with Brain Tumor in Midst of Tour

Hatebreed guitarist Wayne Lozinak has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, forcing him to exit the veteran hardcore/metal band’s current UK/European tour.

In announcing Lozinack’s condition on its social media channels, the Connecticut band shared the good news that the tumor is not cancerous. However, the guitarist will have to fly back to the US to undergo surgery to remove the mass from his brain.

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The full post from Hatebreed reads:

“On the night of June 14th, while at Download Festival, Wayne began experiencing mild symptoms that raised concerns of a possible stroke. Out of an abundance of caution, he sought medical attention the following day upon arriving in Lille, France. After undergoing a CT scan at the ER, doctors discovered a brain tumor, leading to his immediate admission for further testing.

Following a thorough 24-hour evaluation, including an MRI, it was determined that the tumor is a benign meningioma—a slow-growing mass that has likely been present for years. We are immensely relieved that Wayne’s diagnosis is the best possible outcome given the circumstances.

Wayne will be returning to the U.S. to prepare for surgery and focus on rest and recovery. His strength and resilience remain unwavering, and he is determined to return to Hatebreed as soon as he is able. We appreciate all the love and support from fans, friends, and the music community during this time.

Further updates will be shared as appropriate. Thank you for respecting Wayne’s privacy as he begins this journey toward full health.

@mattbachandmusic will be taking over touring guitar 🎸 duties while bass will now be handled by Karl @firstbloodrules see you in the pit!”

As the post mentions, Hatebreed touring bassist Matt Bachand will be moving over to guitar for the remainder of the outing, while Carl Schwartz (First Blood, Terror) will fill in on bass.

Lozinack co-founded Hatebreed with frontman Jamey Jasta in 1994, but left the band in 1996. He rejoined in 2009 and has been a member ever since.

Hatebreed’s UK/European tour continues through a July 6th show in London. The band will then immediately fly back to the States to headline the “Summer Slaughter Tour” kicking off July 8th in St. Petersburg, Florida (pick up tickets here).