It has been reported that the beloved front-of-the-house engineer Dave “Big Shirt” Nicholls passed away today (24). Although many wouldn’t recognize his face, they would remember the live sound he provided for bands such as Slipknot, Stone Sour, Avenged Sevenfold, and more. He was adored by many bands and musicians including Obituary, Sick of it All, Stone Sour drummer Roy Mayorga, and more as the tributes continue to soar. His unfortunate death happened to be on the seventh anniversary of the late Slipknot bassist Paul Gray’s death.

Nicholls’ loved ones created a gofundme page for his funeral expenses and “the long-term well-being of his heartbroken family.”

The full campaign states:

This memorial page is set up on behalf of Vanessa Nicholls in remembrance of her husband and our beloved friend Big Shirt (David Nicholls).

His tragic death on the 24th of May is a moment in time that will forever be embedded in his family and friends hearts. The world will never be the same without our friend and brother.

Please give generously to this cause. All proceeds will go towards his funeral and for the long-term well being of his heartbroken family. As you make a donation, please leave your favorite memory or a message of support for the family. We will compile these all and give to his family.

I thank you all in advance.”