in memory of RAGE guitarist Jochen Schröder

in memory of RAGE guitarist Jochen Schröder

September 3, 2021: RIP Jochen Schröder (Avenger/Rage/Mekong Delta)

(October 25, 1962 - September 3, 2021)

Jochen was a co-founder and guitarist for the heavy metal band Rage (Rage) from their formation in 1982 until 1987. It is believed that he left the music business entirely. He recorded three demos, an album called Prayers of Steel (1985) and an EP with Avenger before they changed the name to Rage. He played first two official albums, Reign of Fear (1986) and Execution Guaranteed (1987). The Metal Archives shows that also he played with the progressive-technical thrash heavy metal band Mekong Delta (Germany) from 1985 to 1987, starting from the beginning of the band when they used fictitious names.

His former band RAGE and RAGE leader Peter “Peavey” Wagner wrote at the time of Jochen's death:

“It is our deepest regret to inform you that Avenger/Rage co-founder and guitarist Jochen Schroeder has left this earth under rather tragic circumstances. From 1982 to 1987 Jochen was not only the guitar player for Avenger/Rage but also co-composed a lot of their early songs. In that he was an important driver of the band’s development and with his unique ideas paved the stylistic way of the band.

“Jochen hadn’t been a part of the music business for a long time and in recent years became more and more private. Unfortunately, the exact circumstances surrounding his cause of death are unknown to us at the time. We’re mourning the loss of a great bandmate who left this world far too soon.

“Peavy: the news about the passing of my old friend and bandmate Jochen saddens me deeply. In recent years we lost track of each other, but I’ll always remember the good and exciting times we had together. Jochen taught me a lot back then and I owe him for that. In life it is rare to meet someone who gives you the impulses that send you down the right path. Jochen was that person to me and I couldn’t have done it without him. Thank you, Jochen, I wish you all the best on your travels, wherever you may wander… Peavy”

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