We are saddened to report, former Nile and Divine Heresy bassist Joseph Payne has died. He was only 35 years old. No cause of death has been released to the public. The news of his passing was confirmed by his former Divine Heresy bandmate, guitarist Dino Cazares (Fear Factory), who issued the following statement on social media:
“Our Metal brother Joseph Payne has passed away. Another one gone way to young, he was 35 years old.
I wasn’t going to say anything until I got confirmation from his family, which I now did. At this time no cause of death has been revealed.
Joe was a great friend, a great band member and an incredible
musician. Although he played bass in Divine Heresy, he was an
incredible guitarist. I first saw him playing bass in Nile and right
then and there, I said, ‘I want that guy in my band.’ After having
that first conversation that night, I realized he was a great dude and from there on, we’ve shared some amazing moments in life and on tour,from Australia to South America to Canada to Mexico to Europe etc..
Joe was a very outgoing funny guy with a very friendly personality. He was loved by many and he loved all his fans and road friends. He never complained when times got tough on the road. He always helped everyone and worked his ass off when he was in DH and I admired him for being that way. 
We love you and we will miss you Rest In Peace my friend.
-Dino Cazares”
Our thoughts go out to Joseph’s friends and family during this difficult time.
