Flipper Vocalist Bruce Loose Dies at 66 from Heart Attack

Bruce Loose, the iconic vocalist and bassist of the influential San Francisco punk band Flipper, has died at 66 from an apparent heart attack after a prolonged struggle with health issues. Loose was a pioneering figure in the punk scene starting in the late 1970s, known for his unique singing style and the band's loud, chaotic sound that heavily influenced alternative and grunge music, notably Nirvana. Kurt Cobain famously wore a DIY Flipper T-shirt and included their debut album among his favorites, while Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic played with Flipper in the 2000s and contributed to their recordings. Loose left the band in 2015 due to back problems but remained a crucial inspiration for many musicians and fans, with his music emphasizing personal struggle and nonconformity. Following his passing, Flipper members and the wider music community have expressed their condolences, highlighting his lasting impact on punk and alternative rock. His death marks the loss of a seminal artist whose work continues to inspire creativity and authenticity.