Current CRIMSON GLORY singer Wade Black (also DISASTER PEACE) has sent BraveWords.com the following statement regarding the passing of former Crimson Glory frontman Midnight (real name John Patrick McDonald Jr.) who passed away today (Wednesday, July 8) at 3:40 AM EST. He was 47 years old.

"My heart is filled with sadness today as my friend and brother Midnight has passed from this world into the next. I was called to the hospital last night as things were not looking good for him, and I am thankful that I was able to say good-bye to him and visit with his family before he passed.

We all know what Midnight's legacy has meant in the world of metal. His voice, his style has served and will always be one

of the benchmarks against which all metal vocalists will be judged. His work after Crimson Glory showed a true artist at work-pushing the envelope, expanding what Midnight was really all about, and taking us on musical journeys down paths only he could see.

There are many singers in the metal community who owe much to Midnight. I certainly am the one who perhaps owes him the most. When I assumed the role of vocalist in Crimson Glory a decade ago, it was a huge opportunity. Where another might have been bitter or had harsh words for me, Midnight communicated only praise and encouragement. When I finally met him and had an extended conversation with him two years ago, it was instant brotherhood. We talked like old friends, and that evening was the beginning of a collaboration that really closed a loop that had been started a decade earlier. I'd spent the better part of ten years in part singing the songs that Midnight had created, and then had the privilege of working with him creating new music. Very few people get to meet the people who inspire their careers, fewer still get to work with them. In this regard, I count myself as truly blessed.

Miss you Mid, Crimson Glory will live forever."