Tragic Loss: Drive Like Jehu’s Rick Froberg Passes Away at 55

Music & Musicians Rick Froberg, singer for San Diego band Drive Like Jehu, dies at 55

A Tragic Loss for the Music Community

On July 2, 2023, the music world lost a talented musician and visual artist. Eric “Rick” Froberg, best known for his work as the guitarist and lead vocalist for the San Diego-based band Drive Like Jehu, passed away at the age of 55. The news of his sudden death from natural causes was shared by his bandmate, guitarist John Reis, on Instagram.

The Legacy of Rick Froberg

Rick Froberg, a longtime resident of Encinitas, California, was born in Los Angeles and made significant contributions to the San Diego music scene. Alongside Reis, he played in several local bands, including Pitchfork and Hot Snakes. Froberg also embraced his talent as a visual artist and illustrator, creating album art, promotional artwork, and merchandise designs for his own bands as well as for Rocket from the Crypt, a band led by Reis, and the Swami Records label.

Described by the Los Angeles Times as someone who brought the knotty, overdriven sound of math rock into the mainstream, Froberg was highly regarded for his creativity and vision. He was not only a skilled musician and artist but also a beloved friend, known for his passion for art, rock ‘n’ roll, and the people in his life.

A Mosaic of Musical Collaborations

Outside of his renowned work with Drive Like Jehu, Froberg played with various other bands throughout his career. These include Last of the Juanitas, Thingy, and Obits. With over 20 albums to his credit, Froberg left an indelible mark on the music industry.

His last completed album, “Jericho Sirens,” was released in 2018 with his band Hot Snakes. Although Obits disbanded in 2015, they released the live album “Die At the Zoo” in 2021, showcasing a recording from their 2012 tour in Brisbane, Australia. In recent weeks, Froberg had hinted at a new record from Hot Snakes through Instagram, leaving fans eagerly anticipating new music.

A Visual Journey through Underground Music

In addition to his musical endeavors, Froberg’s talent extended into the world of visual art and illustration. In 2022, the Trash Lamb Gallery in San Diego’s South Park neighborhood featured an exhibition titled “Let My People Go: Art and Illustration 1988 to Present.” It showcased the posters Froberg created throughout his career for the underground music scene in the area, further solidifying his impact on both the music and visual arts communities.

An Editorial: Celebrating Rick Froberg’s Impact

The loss of Rick Froberg is a significant blow to the music community, not only in San Diego but also beyond. His contributions as both a musician and visual artist have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire and influence artists for years to come.

His ability to merge the complexities of math rock with mainstream appeal was groundbreaking, showcasing his talent for pushing boundaries and challenging conventional notions of sound. Froberg’s passion for art and rock ‘n’ roll emanated through his work, leaving an indelible imprint on the music industry.

Moreover, his dedication to his craft and his love for his friends were evident to all who knew him. He touched the lives of countless individuals through his art, creating a sense of beauty and connection that will be missed profoundly.

Advice for Remembering Rick Froberg

In the wake of this tragic loss, it is essential to honor Froberg’s memory by celebrating his work and the impact he had on the music world. For fans, this can mean revisiting his albums, sharing his music with others, or attending tribute events to pay homage to his contributions.

Additionally, supporting local artists and the underground music scene can help carry forward the spirit of creativity and vision that Froberg embodied. By recognizing and nurturing talent within our communities, we can ensure that artists like Froberg continue to have a platform for their work to be appreciated and cherished.

Ultimately, the legacy of Rick Froberg will thrive through the music he created, the art he shared, and the memories he left behind. Let us celebrate his life and continue to find inspiration in his creativity, forever grateful for the beauty he brought into the world.