Kent Stax Passed Away, Who was Kent Stax? What Happened to Scream Drummer Kent Stax?

Kent Stax, drummer of Scream, has passed away at 61 due to metastatic cancer. His legacy in punk music endures.

by S Samayanka | Updated Sep 21, 2023

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Kent Stax Passed Away

Kent Stax, the drummer from the band Scream, has sadly passed away at the age of 61. He was known as the heartbeat of Scream and played with them on their early albums.

He battled cancer, and last year, his friends in the DC punk scene held a benefit show to help with his treatment. Kent's music career was not limited to Scream; he played in other bands too. He leaves behind his wife, daughter, and many friends and fans who will miss him dearly.

Who Was Kent Stax? 

Kent Stax, whose real name was Bennett Kent Stacks, was a significant figure in the world of punk and hardcore music. He is best known as the original drummer and founding member of the hardcore punk band Scream, hailing from Virginia. Kent co-founded the band in 1979 with his schoolmates, and they drew inspiration from the punk scene in Washington, D.C. His drumming skills and passion helped shape Scream's early sound.

Kent contributed to the band's debut album, "Still Screaming," and remained a vital part of Scream for their next two albums. His departure in the late '80s led to a young Dave Grohl taking over the drumming duties. Kent briefly reunited with the band for a Christmas show in 1996.

Beyond music, Kent was a multi-talented individual, excelling in fishing, and carpentry, and having a deep love for trains. He explored various music genres beyond punk, playing in bands like The Suspects, Spitfires United, Alleged Bricks, and more.

Kent Stax's enduring legacy is marked by his irreplaceable role in Scream, his musical versatility, and his passion for life. His influence on punk music and his unique contributions will be remembered by fans, friends, and fellow musicians.

Name

Bennett Kent Stacks 

Known as

Kent Stax

Death Date

September 2023

Age at Death

61

Occupation

Musician (Drummer)

Band Name Scream (1981–1986, 2009–2023)
Wife Andrea
Daughter Jennifer

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What Happened to Scream Drummer Kent Stax? 

Scream drummer Kent Stax, whose real name was Bennett Kent Stacks, sadly passed away due to metastatic cancer. The cancer had spread to different parts of his body, making it very difficult to treat. His death came just one day after Scream announced their new album called "DC Special," which was a significant moment for the band and their fans.

Kent's passing was a sad moment for the music world, especially for fans of Scream, as it came right after the exciting news of their new album. His legacy as a musician and his unique contributions to the band will always be remembered.

Kent Stax's Career in Scream Band

Kent Stax was a crucial member of the iconic punk band Scream. He joined the band as its drummer in 1981, helping to form the group alongside singer Pete Stahl, guitarist Franz Stahl, and bassist Skeeter Thompson in Northern Virginia. Scream emerged during the early days of the Washington, D.C. hardcore punk scene.

Their music was characterized by fast tempos, socially aware lyrics, a DIY ethos, and a rejection of commercialism. Kent Stax's drumming skills were a fundamental part of Scream's sound, contributing to their pioneering status within the hardcore punk movement. The band recorded their music at Inner Ear Studios and became the first Dischord Records artist to release a full-length album.

Kent remained with Scream for several albums, including their early records like "Still Screaming." He eventually left in the late '80s, and his departure led to a young Dave Grohl taking over the drumming duties. Kent Stax's contribution to Scream's legacy and the hardcore punk scene will always be remembered as he played a significant role in shaping the band's early sound and success.

Scream Band Albums

Year

Album Title

1983

Still Screaming

1985

This Side Up

1986

Banging the Drum

1988

No More Censorship

1993

Fumble

2023

DC Special

How Did Kent Stax Die?

Kent Stax, the original drummer of the hardcore punk band Scream, passed away due to metastatic cancer. This type of cancer is when the disease spreads to different parts of the body, making it challenging to treat. Despite battling cancer, Kent Stax had a diverse life.His passing was a significant loss in the music world.

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Kent Stax Passed Away - FAQs

1. How did Kent Stax pass away?

Kent Stax passed away due to metastatic cancer, a type of cancer that had spread to different parts of his body.

2. Who was Kent Stax?

Kent Stax, whose real name was Bennett Kent Stacks, was the original drummer and founding member of the hardcore punk band Scream.

3. What was Kent Stax's age at the time of passing?

Kent Stax's age at the time of passing is 61.

4. What was Scream's significance in the punk scene?

Scream was a pioneering band in the early Washington, D.C. hardcore punk scene, known for their fast tempos, socially conscious lyrics, and rejection of commercialism.

5. What is Scream's latest album release?

Scream's latest album, titled "DC Special," was announced shortly before Kent Stax's passing, marking the band's return to studio albums after 30 years.