Michael Sweet, lead frontman and co-founder of the Christian metal band Stryper, announced Tuesday that his father has died.
Robert Sweet, Michael’s brother, is also a founding and current member of the band.
“I just got the news that my dad died last night just after midnight [Las Vegas] time. I’m feeling so many different emotions in this moment and there is so much to say,” Sweet posted on social media. “I will write something later about what he meant to me and why I am who I am today because of him.”
“I thank you all for your thoughts and prayers,” Sweet continued. “I love you dad. I always have. I always will. I look forward to seeing you strong again and full of life. May God hold you until then🙏.”
The day prior, Sweet asked fans to pray for his father and shared that he and Rob were unable to be by their father’s side.
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“So I come to you all, once again asking for prayers,” said Sweet. “I know this is part of life and what everyone must go through but me and Rob, we’re here in Brazil and our dad isn’t doing so well.”
“He’s in hospice now. We’re in another country and have no choice but to finish the tour for many, many reasons,” Sweet continued. “We called him to tell him we love him but he could not talk and we’re obviously not there by his side. Our family could use your thoughts and prayers right now. More than ever🙏.”
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In a post announcing Stryper’s new song from the upcoming Christmas album “Still The Light,” the “To Hell with the Devil” singer described his dad as Stryper’s “biggest supporter on earth…I know he would be proud and encouraging us if he were here.”
