Richie Cip, born Richard Cipriano, has been an important part of the New York Hardcore community for decades. As the bassist for SICK OF IT ALL during the band’s formative years, Richie helped shape the sound of a scene that would go on to influence countless musicians and fans around the world. From the band’s early demo and Revelation Records seven-inch single to SICK OF IT ALL‘s debut album, 1989’s “Blood, Sweat, And No Tears”, his playing is woven into the history of New York hardcore.

Cipriano has recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. As he begins this difficult journey, the community he helped build has an opportunity to come together and support him. Amid this diagnosis, Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has established the Richie Cipriano Fund to help provide financial assistance during his treatment and recovery. A fundraisingT-shirt is also available through the Revelation Records webstore, with proceeds going toward supporting Cipriano.

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides services and financial assistance for career musicians and music industry professionals. Grants are earmarked for medical and vital living expenses, including insurance premiums, prescriptions, medical treatment and operative procedures, housing costs, food costs, utilities, and other basic necessities.

For a community built on looking out for one another, this is a chance to stand with someone who has given so much to the music and culture of New York Hardcore. Please share Richie‘s story, and if you’re able, consider supporting him through a direct donation or by purchasing the fundraising shirt.

For more information on the Richard Cipriano Fund, go to this location.

SICK OF IT ALL vocalist Lou Koller died this past July after a long battle with an esophageal tumor. He was 59 years old.

His bandmates made the announcement on social media, saying, “It’s with unbelievable sadness that we announce to our worldwide hardcore family the passing of our brother Lou Koller. The level of loss that we feel at this time is overwhelming.

“This year would have marked SICK OF IT ALL‘s 40th anniversary as a band, and Lou‘s camaraderie, commitment and enthusiasm were always steadfast throughout the years.

“We have lost a beloved friend and an iconic frontman. Lou had the power to raise everyone’s spirits at our shows with a smile and a sarcastic comment, and he won people over wherever we played, from every culture and every corner of the world.

“At this time of intense grief, we must again acknowledge the great help and support offered by everyone who donated to Lou‘s medical fund. You all helped Lou feel very special and very loved as he battled away these last two years. His battle is over now and he can finally rest. Hopefully he can somehow still see and feel the beautiful, positive mark he left on the world.”