Legendary 80s rock singer David Roach dies aged 59 following a battle with skin cancer – just weeks after getting married

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Legendary rock singer David Roach has died at the age of 59.

In 1987, the musician who helped establish the rock group Junkyard, sadly succumbed to a struggle against skin cancer.

Based on a GoFundMe campaign, he was battling a highly invasive squamous cell cancer that impacted his head, neck, and esophagus.

According to a post made by the band on social media, they regretfully announced that David Roach has passed away.

Following a valiant fight against cancer, David sadly passed away tranquilly last night, surrounded by the tender embrace of his wife, at their home.

‘He was not only a talented artist, performer, songwriter, and singer, but also a devoted father, husband, and brother. Our thoughts go out to the entire Roach family and everyone who cherished him. – Junkyard.’

One way to rephrase the sentence in a more natural and easy-to-read manner is: “Chris Gates, his bandmate, penned an emotional tribute, saying, ‘He was like a little brother to me. We had our moments of disagreement, but that bond never wavered.’

I offer my heartfelt sympathies to his brother, sisters, and anyone else who knew him or was moved by his music.

‘I’ll miss playing music with him, but he’ll always be an important part of me. (sic)’

Two weeks ago, Roach tied the knot with his spouse, Jennifer. They are deeply affected by Roach’s recent cancer diagnosis.

Jennifer expressed on a social media post: ‘It’s heartbreaking and transformative, and we’re making our way through the feelings and doubts that accompany it.’

David displays remarkable fortitude and adaptability, maintaining his wit even amidst challenging circumstances. This serves as a testament to his extraordinary nature.

However, we understand that the path before us is incredibly challenging. Yet, David has shown his resilience by holding onto hope, so we ask for all the affection, good wishes, and prayers you can spare.

Renowned for his rough-textured voice and intense stage persona, David guided his group through the ups and downs of a stormy professional journey.

In 1988, they signed with Geffen Records, and the subsequent year saw the release of their first album, which was titled after the band itself. Among its standout tracks were “Hollywood” and “Simple Man”.

In the pulsating heart of Los Angeles during the late ’80s, I found myself nestled among the luminaries gracing the Sunset Strip. Companions in rhythm and rebellion included the electrifying Mötley Crüe, the raw power of Guns N’ Roses, the neon-soaked glamour of Poison, and the gritty rock ‘n’ roll spirit of Ratt.

In 1992, the band was dropped by Geffen, and disbanded soon after.

In 1998, an unheard-of third album, which had been previously recorded but never released, came to light. It was known by two names: XXX and The Joker.

Junkyard got back together in 2000 and went on to release a series of live and studio projects.

This included 2003’s Tried and True and 2017’s comeback album High Water. 

Their most recent release was the single Lifer in 2021.

Junkyard toured with Lynyrd Skynyrd and were regulars on MTV’s Headbanger’s Ball.

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2025-08-04 12:04