There are moments in the heavy metal world when the music takes a back seat — when one of our own needs the strength and love of the entire community. Right now, that moment belongs to John Gallagher, the legendary voice and bass behind RAVEN.
On August 12th, John was admitted to the hospital after suffering a massive headache. Doctors discovered a Subdural Hematoma — a bleed on the brain. He underwent emergency surgery the next day, followed by a second, even more invasive procedure on August 19th.
Thankfully, John is now healing slowly but steadily. Still, the road to recovery is long — and the toll has been both emotional and financial.
Because of this medical emergency, RAVEN were forced to cancel their September European tour. Flights, hotels, and transportation had already been paid for — much of it nonrefundable. As a touring musician, John faces heavy out-of-pocket expenses, both medical and professional.
To help him and his family through this challenging time, John’s longtime friend and collaborator, Roy Coston, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to ease the burden of medical and financial costs.
Roy’s connection to RAVEN runs deep — as he explains in his own words:
“My relationship with the band has been very deep and well documented over the years, from a fan into a family member. Technically, I was born into this RAVEN family! I was named after my father’s best man and friend, Roy Raven. (True story!)”
“Back in 1985 or 1986, my band Ardent was playing Cortland, NY at a bar called The Whiffle Tree Inn — right when the RAVEN song ‘On & On’ was on rotation at MTV. In walked John and Mark. As soon as we saw them, we knew we had to get them up on stage. We jammed ‘On & On’ and ‘Rock and Roll’ by Led Zeppelin — it was amazing for us!”
“From there, we stayed in touch. John ended up producing our demo in 1987 at UCA Recording Studios in Utica, NY. Then RAVEN recorded Nothing Exceeds Like Excess there, since John already knew the studio. We even went out on a 2-week East Coast tour with them as drivers, roadies — whatever needed doing. Over the years I’ve recorded with John again, booked RAVEN shows in Utica, Syracuse, and Oneida, traveled, fed, and even had them stay at our house.”
Now, Roy has once again answered the call — this time to help his friend through recovery.
This GoFundMe aims to help cover ongoing medical expenses and offset the financial losses caused by the tour cancellation, helping RAVEN get back on their feet and, eventually, back on the road.
If you’ve ever banged your head to “Rock Until You Drop,” seen RAVEN live, or just appreciated their wild energy and perseverance — now’s your chance to give something back.
👉 Donate to John Gallagher’s GoFundMe here
Thank you all for your love and support. Let’s help John get back to full strength — and keep RAVEN flying high.
Raven Lunatics – Rock until you drop.
