Ex-Manowar drummer Scott Columbus passed away yesterday, Monday April 4, aged 54. His death was reported after Blabbermouth.net discovered a facebook post by ex-guitarist Ross “The Boss” Friedman, reading: “Scott Columbus R.I.P. My Brother. I’m gonna miss you!”
An additional post on the drummer’s own facebook page by his girlfriend Nancy added further weight to the news, reading: “For all you to know, this is Scott Columbus‘s girlfriend of over 3 1/3 years… and I cannot get the words out, but he died today… Please send your thoughts and prayers. I can’t believe he is gone. He was the absolute love of my life.”
Circumstances surrounding Columbus’ death are still unknown. The news is no longer subject to speculation following a statement made this morning by Manowar and label Magic Circle Music:
“It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our brother Scott Columbus. Scott Columbus was a rare talent and equally a rare individual. He was a father, a friend and a brother of metal. All of the great moments we spent together in the studio, in our homes and on the road are burnished in our hearts and memories forever. These words are spoken with heavy hearts but we have the comfort of knowing that he is in a good place and at peace. He will never be forgotten. Your family and brothers, Joey, Eric, Karl, Donnie and all at Magic Circle Music.”
First appearing on Manowar’s 1983 classic, “Into Glory Ride”, Scott remained in the band until 1990, returning to the fold after the departure of drummer Rhino in 1994. He parted again with Manowar in April 2008, stating that he had “agreed to disagree on a few points of interest” with bassist and band leader Joey de Maio.
Having worked with Scott and Manowar during the course of Magic Circle Festival in 2007, this writer will say that Columbus was one of the nicest, most humble musicians encountered in his entire career.
R.I.P. Scott Columbus. From all at Zero Tolerance Magazine: You’re a hero! Into Glory Ride!