The talented drummer had recently completed a three-show run in Ohio with Dyerwulf before an unexpected medical emergency led to emergency brain surgery. His musical legacy will continue through an upcoming album the two had been working on together.
The metal community has lost a talented musician far too soon. Joseph Dingle, drummer for Tommy Stewart's Dyerwulf, has passed away at the age of 39 following an unexpected medical emergency that began shortly after the band completed a three-show run in Ohio.
Tommy Stewart shared the heartbreaking news in a personal statement, remembering Joseph as an exceptionally talented drummer and a genuinely good person who had a remarkable ability to connect with people wherever they went.
According to Stewart, the two had just returned from their Ohio shows when Joseph mentioned having a headache. On September 20, 2026, they stopped at a KFC in Corbin, Kentucky, before Stewart dropped Joseph off at his home. Within hours, Joseph was hospitalized in Gainesville, Georgia, and underwent emergency surgery for a brain tumor.
Joseph's condition took a devastating turn while he was in a coma, when he suffered a stroke. He ultimately passed away, leaving behind friends, family, fellow musicians, and a musical legacy that will continue to resonate through the recordings he made with Dyerwulf.
A Drummer Who Made Friends Everywhere
In his tribute, Stewart emphasized that Joseph's impact extended far beyond his abilities behind the drum kit.
Whether they were at a concert, a truck stop, or a hotel lobby, Joseph had a way of making friends wherever he went. Stewart recalled watching people connect with the drummer throughout their travels and performances, with fans frequently approaching the band to express their admiration for his playing.
One particularly memorable moment involved a fan who approached the merchandise table asking to purchase whatever Joseph had been playing. At the time, the band was still working on its new album, and there were no recordings available to sell.
It was a testament to the impression Joseph made on audiences, even while performing material that had yet to be released.
For Stewart, Joseph was more than the drummer in his band. He was a friend whose personality, talent, and presence made their time together meaningful both on and off the stage.
The Music Will Continue
Despite the devastating loss, Stewart has confirmed that he intends to finish the Dyerwulf album he and Joseph had been working on together.
Their recording process was unconventional. Stewart typically began by writing the drum charts and recording the percussion before adding the other instruments. Rather than rehearsing the songs together beforehand, Joseph would read the charts and perform the drum parts directly.
According to Stewart, Joseph had limited vision and required special lighting to help him read the charts positioned on a stand near his face. Despite that additional challenge, he was able to deliver the performances Stewart needed, demonstrating the dedication and musical ability that made him such an important part of the project.
Stewart revealed that several drum tracks had already been recorded, along with a collection of drum fills he had specifically asked Joseph to perform for future use.
Those recordings now carry an even greater significance.
Stewart has made it clear that he plans to continue working with the material and complete the album, believing that is what Joseph would have wanted. The upcoming record will preserve performances captured while the two musicians were creating something together, allowing Joseph's playing to reach listeners long after his passing.
Joseph also played on Dyerwulf's song "My Politics Are My Own," giving listeners an opportunity to hear his work while the band prepares to complete its next chapter.
Gone Far Too Soon
Joseph Dingle was just 39 years old. His sudden passing is a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change, even when someone appears to be carrying on with everyday life and doing what they love.
For those who knew him personally, the loss is immeasurable. For the musicians and fans who encountered him through Dyerwulf, his performances and the memories he helped create will remain part of his legacy.
Stewart's words reflect the shock of losing someone who had recently been traveling, playing shows, and working toward the release of new music. There was no indication, from the account he shared, of how dramatically things would change in such a short period.
The album they were building together now represents more than another release in Dyerwulf's catalog. It is a collection of performances from a musician whose work, friendship, and passion left a lasting impression on the person creating it alongside him.
At Metal Devastation Radio, we extend our deepest condolences to Joseph's family, friends, bandmates, and everyone who had the opportunity to know him. We also send our love and support to Tommy Stewart during an incredibly difficult time.
Rest in peace, Joseph Dingle. You were taken far too soon, but the music you made will continue to speak for you.
Our thoughts are with everyone mourning this tremendous loss.
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