Hatebreed guitarist Wayne Lozinak has stepped down from the band’s current tour following a brain tumor diagnosis. The band released an official statement on Instagram.
The band’s announcement detailed the medical emergency that occurred during their European tour. It provided updates on Lozinak’s condition and treatment plan.
“On the night of June 14th, while at Download Festival, Wayne (Lozinak) began experiencing mild symptoms that raised concerns of a possible stroke,” the band stated. “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.”
The statement continued with positive news about the diagnosis and prognosis.
“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,” they explained. “We are immensely relieved that Wayne’s diagnosis is the best possible outcome given the circumstances.”
The band also outlined their plans moving forward, both for Lozinak’s recovery and their touring commitments.
“Wayne will be returning to the U.S. to prepare for surgery and focus on rest and recovery,” they announced. “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.”
“Matt Bachand will be taking over touring guitar duties while bass will now be handled by Karl from First Blood Rules. See you in the pit!”
The band will continue their tour with the temporary lineup changes while Lozinak focuses on his treatment and recovery.
Lozinak’s temporary departure marks a significant moment for the Connecticut-based hardcore band. His long-standing role in shaping their sound and identity makes this particularly notable.
Wikipedia documented that Wayne Lozinak is a founding member of Hatebreed, which was established in 1994 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The guitarist has been present from the band’s very inception. He briefly left early on before returning to solidify his place as one of their lead guitarists and touring the world with the group.
Lozinak’s influence on the band’s distinctive crossover hardcore and metalcore sound has been substantial throughout their three-decade career. EMG Pickups noted that he is widely recognized for his influential role in shaping Hatebreed’s sound, which has inspired many contemporary bands in the genre. The guitarist has credited his tone and style in part to using EMG pickups for over two decades, stating that “they always provide the best output, sustain and clarity, no other pickup I’ve tried can produce.”
The guitarist’s musical journey began in his early teens, reflecting the humble beginnings that would eventually lead to his influential career in metal. Loudwire reported that Lozinak shared that he began seriously learning guitar around age 12 or 13 after taking lessons. He had previously only experimented with his father’s guitar.
“For years I had a guitar because my father had one, so I would just mess around with his,” Lozinak has said about his early days learning music. He described the modest start that would eventually shape one of hardcore’s most recognizable sounds.
