Decibel is extremely saddened to announce the death of Venom bassist/vocalist Conrad “Cronos” Lant, who passed away on October 1, 2026, at the age of 63.
As frontman of one of extreme metal’s foundational acts, Venom, Lant’s resume speaks for itself, as anyone who has heard the groundbreaking chaos of albums like Welcome to Hell, Black Metal and At War With Satan, which not only went on to inspire other young metal musicians but aid in the creation of entire metal subgenres like black metal and death metal, can attest. Though the group disbanded and reactivated multiple times in the ’90s and early aughts, by 2007 Lant carried forward with a stable Venom lineup in which he would be remain the only original member of until his death.
Decibel sends our hearts out to Lant’s family, his current and past bandmates, and all fans of extreme metal around the world.
Rest well, Cronos. May we all Die Hard in your honor.
A statement from Venom’s official Instagram profile is below:
It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the news that Conrad “Cronos” Lant has passed away.
For more than four decades, Conrad’s voice, bass and vision were at the heart of VENOM.
From the first dark rumblings of Welcome to Hell, through Black Metal, At War With Satan, Possessed and beyond, he created something that changed heavy music forever.
VENOM never followed the rules.
They forged their own path.And Conrad was there at the centre of it all — uncompromising, fearless and unmistakable.
The Legions have always been an important part of VENOM. To everyone who stood with the band through the years, bought the records, came to the shows, wore the shirts, shared the music and kept the flame burning — Cronos was always grateful for your loyalty and support.
A message from Nathan, Conrad’s son:
“I want to thank all of the Legions for all of the support you have given my dad over the years. I know he really appreciated you all. He has laid down his soul, and his music will live on. The legend of Cronos will never die.”
His music will never die.
His voice will never fade.And the legacy of VENOM will live on through the music he created and through the Legions around the world who continue to carry that flame.
Thank you, Conrad.
Thank you, Cronos.
Thank you for the music.
Thank you for the memories.Our deepest love and condolences go to Nathan & Hel, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
REST IN PEACE, CONRAD
THE LEGEND LIVES ON
🖤
VENOM
