
Adam Ramey, lead vocalist and founding member of the rap-metal band Dropout Kings, has died by suicide at the age of 31, following what family described as a “long and painful battle with addiction.”
The tragic news was shared via a GoFundMe page launched by his sister-in-law, Jamie Varner, who revealed that Ramey died on Monday, May 19 — just five days before he was due to celebrate his 32nd birthday.
“Adam wasn’t just my brother-in-law — he was like a real brother to me,” Varner wrote. “He saved my life during one of my darkest times and always showed up for the people he loved. He brought life and energy to every room, every family gathering, and every stage he stepped on.”
Ramey is survived by his 29-year-old widow, Jamie, and their 18-month-old son, Jude.
“Now Jamie is left grieving the love of her life while raising their baby boy alone,” the post continued. “She’s facing not only unimaginable heartbreak but also the financial burden of funeral expenses and legal costs.”
As of Wednesday morning, May 21, the fundraiser had collected $40,760 toward a $60,000 goal.
Dropout Kings, formed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2016, described their sound as a modern fusion of rap and rock, drawing inspiration from bands like Linkin Park and Limp Bizkit. Since their debut, the group has released three albums and earned millions of streams with tracks such as “Unholy,” “Glitch Gang,” and “I Ain’t Depressed.”
Ramey’s bandmates issued a heartfelt tribute following his passing: “Life comes at you in ways you can never predict. The rollercoaster of chasing your dreams and building with your brothers and friends is a joy few get to know in the most genuine sense — and one we were beyond blessed to experience together as Dropout Kings.”