The death of Quiet Riot drummer Frankie Banali shocked the music world this week, with the musician passing away after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Banali was 68 and his influence clearly touched many, as bands from all over the world paid tribute via social media.

“Very sad to hear of the passing of Frankie Banali. He was so open in his reports of his illness and seemed to live through his treatments and setbacks bravely and with grace. RIP,” said Paul Stanley.

“The music world in general and the metal world in particular mourns the loss of both,” wrote Twisted Sister.

“Frankie was an inspiration in his fight to win this and we celebrate his memory tonight with family and friends…”

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“I met Frankie Banali when Poison and Quiet Riot did a small tour together in 1986. Frankie was by far the coolest rockstar I had ever met at that point. We stayed friends since then,” said Poison’s Rikki Rockett on Instagram.

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I met Frankie Banali when Poison and Quiet Riot did a small tour together in 1986. Frankie was by far the coolest rockstar I had ever met at that point. We stayed friends since then. Frankie was the epitome of being a straight shooter, but a super nice person all at the same time. When Frankie and Regina reached out to me because they knew I went through my own battle, I hooked them up with my Doctors right away. At that time they had no trials outstanding that they they felt was better than the options he was being offered at the time. Frankie battled like a banshee, but the beast was relentless. I never got that pasta recipe, Frankie. Damn you! Love always my brother… . . #frankiebanali #rikkirockett #quietriot #poison

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Slash from Guns ‘N Roses posted an image of banali with the simple message “RIP”.

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RIP #FrankieBanali

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“Frankie Banali and the fight that he has endured with cancer for well over a year now, that has taken its toll physically, emotionally and spiritually is now finished. My friend is gone,” said W.A.S.P. frontman Blackie Lawless.

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“My hero, mentor, QUIETRIOT brother @FrankieBanali is now resting in peace and pain free. I will post a follow up in days to come as try to process this unmeasurable loss,” said Rudy Sarzo.

Banali was first diagnosed with cancer in April of 2019, and was given six months to live by doctors.

“He put up an inspiringly brave and courageous 16-month battle to the end and continued playing live as long as he could,” said his wife Regina in a statement.

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