Conrad “Cronos” Lant, the vocalist and bassist of the influential heavy metal band Venom, has passed away. He was 63.
Lant’s passing was confirmed in a social media statement shared by his bandmates, Stuart “Rage” Dixon and Danny “Dante” Needham, as well as his son, Nathan. No cause of death was revealed.
“It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we share the news that Conrad “Cronos” Lant has passed away,” the statement, posted today (2 October), began.
The statement continued, “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.”
Adding that fans – “the Legions” – have always been an important part of Venom’s career, the band said that Lant was “always grateful” for their loyalty and support.
Lant’s son, Nathan, added, “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.”
The band’s statement concluded, “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.”
A founding member of Venom – whose career began in 1979 – Lant remained a steady figure in the band between break-ups, reunions, and touring and releasing music into 2026.
He also enjoyed a solo career, developing the band Cronos while Venom were on hiatus (1988-1995) and collaborated with bands including Cradle of Filth, Warfare, and HammerFall.
Lant appeared on all Venom albums, including their latest, Into Oblivion, released in May of this year.
