A new episode of the YouTube series Soft White Underbelly has shaken the metal community, revealing that Cameron Heacock, the former frontman of industrial nu-metal outfit American Head Charge, has been living homeless in Los Angeles for years while struggling with fentanyl addiction.
Heacock appears almost unrecognisable from his early 2000s peak, when American Head Charge were signed to Rick Rubin’s American Recordings and touring alongside Slipknot, System Of A Down and Rammstein. Speaking candidly in the interview, he says he has spent “at least five or six years” living around MacArthur Park. When asked how long he has been on the streets, he replies, “I’ve lost track, it’s been a long time.”
What cuts through the most is how deeply he still connects to music: “I love music, I love making music, I love the whole process… I still have so much music in my heart.” He says he has “two, three records” in his head, describing song writing as a form of therapy.
The Nu-metal community is rallying behind him
The video has triggered a wave of emotion from fans and old friends across Minneapolis, Baltimore and beyond, people who knew Cameron in his earlier years and are now desperate to reach him. The comments section is filled with messages offering help, support and memories. One commenter wrote, “If you ever scroll through the comments… reach out to your old friends from Baltimore. We’re here for you man, if you need us.” Others from Minnesota echoed the same sentiment: “There’s a lot of people out here that love you and care about you.”
Support is already forming in practical ways too, Holiday Kirk, editor of Nu Metal Agenda, has floated the idea of a benefit show in Minneapolis to raise funds for Heacock’s recovery, marking the 25th anniversary of The War Of Art.
American Head Charge’s history has always carried triumph and tragedy in equal measure, and this latest update has reminded fans just how human the people behind those records are. For anyone in the Los Angeles area seeking help with addiction or homelessness, local resources remain available.
If you or someone you love needs support with drug or alcohol addiction, you can get in contact with Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36.
MORE IN News
