Sum 41's Stevo32: From Drums To YouTube & Beyond!
What became of the high-octane energy of Sum 41, the Canadian rock band that defined a generation's soundtrack? Their story is one of soaring success, personal struggles, and a resilient comeback, a narrative that continues to unfold even today.
The genesis of Sum 41, a band that would become synonymous with pop-punk anthems, can be traced back to Ajax, Ontario, in 1996. This was the year when the initial lineup of Deryck Whibley, Richard Roy, Jon Marshall, and Steve "Stevo32" Jocz came together, setting the stage for a musical journey filled with youthful exuberance and raw talent. From those early days, the band, originally named Kaspir, began to hone its sound, a blend of high-energy punk rock with a pop sensibility that would soon capture the hearts of a global audience. The name "Sum 41" itself, a seemingly random choice, was a nod to the band's formation on the 41st day of summer, a quirk that became a part of their identity.
As the band gained traction, they signed an international record deal with Island Records in 1999, marking a pivotal moment in their career. This deal provided them with the platform they needed to reach a wider audience and begin their ascent to international fame. The band's classic lineup solidified around Deryck Whibley (lead vocals, guitars, keyboards), Dave Baksh (lead guitar, backing vocals), Jason McCaslin (bass, backing vocals), Tom Thacker (guitars, keyboards, backing vocals), and Frank Zummo (drums, occasional backing vocals).
Sum 41's impact on the music scene during the early 2000s was undeniable. Their music resonated with a generation, and they quickly exploded onto the scene, gaining a devoted fan base. With a string of hits and relentless touring, the band cemented its place in the music industry. Their music, a blend of catchy melodies, energetic performances, and relatable lyrics, spoke to the experiences of young people worldwide. This rapid ascent was not without its challenges, however, as the band members navigated the pressures of fame, the demands of touring, and the complexities of their personal lives. The period saw both the pinnacle of their success and the seeds of the struggles to come.
The band faced many challenges, including dealing with Deryck Whibley's battle with alcoholism. He was hospitalized in a coma with severe damage to his liver and kidneys, which almost ended his life. This was a stark reminder of the personal toll that the rock and roll lifestyle can exact. The period also saw the departure of founding member and drummer Steve Jocz in 2013. He decided to leave the band in 2013 and was replaced by Frank Zummo in 2015.
The final lineup of Sum 41, which included Deryck Whibley, Dave Baksh, Jason McCaslin, Tom Thacker, and Frank Zummo, continued the legacy of the band. They have evolved, maintaining their tight, energetic performances. They released 13 Voices, their sixth studio album, on October 7, 2016, which was the first album with Frank Zummo. The band's story is a testament to their lasting impact, and their influence on music is undeniable. They have signed up to be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
After 17 years of service with Sum 41, drummer Steve "Stevo32" Jocz decided to leave the band in 2013. The band's drummer quit to become a real estate agent. This decision, a "deep, dark secret" according to some, marked a significant turning point for the band.
However, the story of Sum 41 also involves personal struggles, with the band members, particularly Deryck Whibley, facing challenges related to addiction and mental health. Deryck nearly lost his life to alcohol-related health issues, forcing a major life reset. In an interview, Sum 41's Deryck Whibley and his wife Ari opened up about her 2013 suicide attempt and how they've healed thanks to the song 'Catching Fire'.
The band announced on Facebook in August 2015 that Dave Baksh was returning to the band. In May 2016, they announced that the following album would be released via Hopeless Records. This return, along with the recruitment of Frank Zummo as their drummer, helped to revitalize the group.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Jocz |
| Born | July 23, 1981 |
| Also Known As | Stevo32, Stevo |
| Occupation | Drummer, YouTuber |
| Known For | Original drummer for Sum 41 |
| Sum 41 Tenure | 1996 - 2013 |
| Notable Projects | Sum 41 albums, YouTube channel |
| Associated Acts | Sum 41 |
| Departure from Sum 41 | 2013 |
| Replaced by | Frank Zummo |
| Other | One of the four founding members of Sum 41. |
| Reference | Wikipedia - Steve Jocz |
The band's story is a reminder that even in the face of immense challenges, it is possible to reinvent oneself and find a new path. Steve Jocz, the original drummer, is a former drummer of Sum 41, and has become a YouTuber. The band, which started in Ajax, Ontario, became a symbol of resilience and musical talent. The story of Sum 41 continues, as they have signed up to be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, highlighting their lasting impact.
In 2016, Sum 41 was on the Warped Tour. The album, 13 Voices, was released on October 7, 2016. The album was planned since 2012 and was recorded from 2014 to 2016. This is the first album with Sum 41's new drummer Frank Zummo and the first album since the return of lead guitarist Dave Baksh. The band's performance in NYC was captured in photographs.
The band has proven that they are still strong. Their ability to persevere through adversity, combined with their musical talent, has ensured their continued success. The future holds much promise for the band.
