FIREHOUSE singer CJ Snare has passed away after a battle with colon cancer
The singer, born Carl Jeffery Snare, died on April 5 as reported by his significant other Katherine Little.
In a message posted to social media by recognized rock digital creator Mitch Lafon, Katherine posted the following:
“It is with a heavy heart that I write this and it’s extremely difficult to find the right words. CJ left this world on Friday, April 5th. I’ve had 8+ wonderful years with this man and I love him to his core.
“In September of 2020, CJ was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. His initial prognosis was grim, but that didn’t stop him. We went for a second opinion and in September of 2021, he had a life-saving operation that gave us these last years with him. He was so incredibly positive during this whole disease.
“He was so strong. He never lost hope. All he wanted was to be the CJ that you all know and love. Last spring, he started having some more issues and he had another surgery in October 2023. This last surgery left him very weak and unable to live a full life. I’ve been by his side from day 1 and I would have never given up on him.
“CJ leaves behind three wonderful children that are all so very special to me. Life will never be the same. I’m not ready to face this. There is so much to say but words are incredibly difficult right now. Please respect our family during this time of grief and keep us in your thoughts.”
“REST IN PEACE CJ“
C.J. Snare leaves behind two sons and one daughter.
We at Loaded Radio extend our deepest condolences to CJ’s loved ones at this time.
FIREHOUSE, an American rock band hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, burst onto the scene in the early 1990s, leaving an indelible mark on the melodic rock landscape. Formed in 1989 by Snare, guitarist Bill Leverty, drummer Michael Foster, and bassist Perry Richardson, FIREHOUSE quickly gained recognition for their exceptional musicianship and infectious hooks.
In 1990, FIREHOUSE signed with Epic Records and released their self-titled debut album the following year. Bolstered by hit singles like “Don’t Treat Me Bad” and “Love of a Lifetime,” the album achieved platinum status and catapulted the band to international fame. Their sophomore effort, “Hold Your Fire” (1992), further solidified their success with chart-topping hits like “Reach for the Sky” and “Sleeping with You.”
Throughout the 1990s, FIREHOUSE continued to release acclaimed albums, including “3” (1995) and “Good Acoustics” (1996), showcasing their versatility and songwriting prowess. Their melodic rock anthems and electrifying live performances earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.
Despite evolving musical trends, FIREHOUSE remained a mainstay in the rock scene, releasing several albums and touring extensively to the delight of their loyal supporters. With their timeless sound and unwavering passion for music, FIREHOUSE captivated audiences around the world, cementing their status as one of the most beloved and enduring rock bands of their era.