We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Goatwhore bassist James Harvey IV. The news was confirmed by his sister Rachel, who expressed:
“It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of my big brother James E Harvey IV. He died peacefully in his sleep on July 26 as an otherwise healthy 35 year old. He lived an epic life and we will carry on his legacy. Our focus is on family unity and supporting Lorrena, Jay and Ollie.”
A GoFundMe account has since been launched, and donations are currently welcome via this location.
Rachel shared the following on the official GoFundMe campaign:
“James was larger than life. His family was the most important thing in the world to him. He always stressed the importance of education to his boys and had high expectations for them. Though he was an environmental engineer by education and trade, he was also a builder and mechanic, musician, chef, and motorcyclist- he could do it all. James had friends all over the country from many walks of life. He lived a life with no regrets and was proud of his accomplishments and his relationships. Although we only had 35 years with him, we have amassed a lifetime of stories. Anyone who knew him would agree that he had a commanding but gentle presence. He may have towered over you but he had a way of making you feel big. We have created this page so that everyone whose life was touched by James and his family can contribute to Jay’s and Oliver’s future, so that they may live lives that James hoped for.”
Goatwhore issued the below statement on social media:
“The mechanisms of being in a band bring together so many different personalities and aspects beyond the musical part of it all. Everyone involved create unique bonds and personal connections unlike ones we all encounter on a “normal” level of life. The hardest part about being in a band isn’t all those crazy dilemmas and petty mishaps, but when one of those people that you shared many of those experiences, memories and triumphs with, leaves this plane of existence far too early, it hits really hard. Let us praise and remember our great friend, outstanding father and husband, astounding musician, Mr. James Edward Harvey IV. We will miss you dearly, along with all the fun times and great music we created together. Let all of our accomplishments stand as a monument of our greatest moments together. Keep the faith our dearest friend and hope you are somewhere continuing your cycle as an amazing being.”
The New Orleans metal outfit later shared an old video interview in memory of James:
Harvey’s musical journey began in 2003 when he joined the band Driven By Suffering. Subsequently, he performed with Ritual Killer and Psychon Vex before securing his role as the bassist for Goatwhore in 2009. While already touring with the group, Harvey officially worked on albums Blood for the Master (2012), Constricting Rage of the Merciless (2014), and Vengeful Ascension (2017). While working on the mentioned 2017 record, Harvey stepped back from touring in 2014 after the birth of his son. However, later in 2017, he decided to part ways with the group. Our thoughts are with Harvey’s family and friends during this difficult time. The GoFundMe is currently nearing $16,000 out of the goal of $50,000.
