09/24/2024
It's taken me some time to write this as I was in the middle of a crazy work schedule when I found out the news and had no words really to describe anything of how I felt.
I met this man over 15 years ago by going to see one of the shows that his band Punishment was doing. Let me tell you this show was incredible, Brad's lead deep vocals were so filled with passion, intensity and soul one could feel the music and stay in the moment forgetting all else. From the moment he walked on the stage it became alive, his charm, his energy, the long hair, the jeans, the wristlets, the rings, the silver, the way he owned the stage, the epitome of a rock star. That voice though was one you would never forget, nor will I ever forget, it set him apart from the rest. He was a sensational frontman. Our paths would cross often here and there over the years.
I even remember working at the Phoenix Concert Theatre many years ago and suddenly seeing Punishment's photo up on wall of fame. It was such a cool thing to see and every day I worked I would walk by that photo and smile that they were up there along with The Rolling Stones who also played there on that wall of fame. It felt right they had a place there.
In the past few years, he had formed Cemetery of Strangers which came during one the most difficult times everyone had been through. No easy task but he was determined and out came new music we could all love and support and that voice, that incredible and dynamic voice could be heard again.
Never in a million years did I think he would pass away so soon, so young, so quickly, it is devastating. He was a vibrant, charismatic, creative and artistic person who loved music, animals and all those close to him. He absolutely loved his family and friends and adored and loved his daughter Darian, she was his world and anyone that knew him knew this. His beautiful partner Shelly, who was always there for him, was also adored and loved, and they shared a beautiful love story. He loved Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Led Zeppelin, Blind Melon and was huge fan of Rival Sons who he did a show with and so many more, he loved music period.
I truly expected to see him on stage again at some point but it wasn’t meant to be. My deepest sympathy goes out to his beautiful daughter Darian and beautiful grandchild Atlas that I'm so grateful he met as well to his beautiful partner Shelly and the rest of his family and friends. The world has lost a huge light, a huge voice, a rock star, one of my favourite people. We will all miss your kindness, your grace, your presence and your music. RIP Brad Searl
