After news broke this weekend that HELLYEAH drummer Roy Mayorga would be re-joining Ministry for an upcoming tour, a new interview with Roy confirms that HELLYEAH is on official hiatus.
Stone Sour drummer Roy Mayorga took over the sticks for HELLYEAH’s “Celebration of the Life of Vinnie Paul” tour after the legendary drummer passed away. During a recent appearance on ‘The New York Hardcore Chronicles Live!’ show, Mayorga was asked if HELLYEAH is still a functioning band, Mayorga responded:
“Not right now, ’cause Chad is on his way to go do Mudvayne. So those guys are on hiatus for right now.”
We can’t say we’re surprised by this. In May of 2019, Cutter joined HELLYEAH frontman Chad Gray for a conversation about the album Welcome Home. According to Chad, after Vinnie’s passing, there were still 6 songs left for him to write and record for the album. At the time, Gray said that it was a hard decision as to whether or not the band would complete the album.
In a conversation with Bad Wolves guitarist Doc Coyle last September, HELLYEAH guitarist Tom Maxwell said that his love affair with music died alongside Vinnie.
“When Vinnie Paul died… I’m not gonna lie… my passion, my love affair died as well with him.”
“I don’t even know if there’s gonna ever be another HELLYEAH record. I don’t even know if I wanna make another HELLYEAH record without him.
I’m at a point right now where I’ve done some amazing shit with some amazing people and I’ve released a lot of great records. And I’ve found success in those — more elsewhere than others.
Like I said, my love affair has kind of been cockblocked a little bit. I don’t find a need or a necessity to continue without Vince.”
Add into the mix that Mudvayne is performing 4 shows this year, and we wouldn’t be surprised if HELLYEAH doesn’t come back. We’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available.
