Black Sabbath's Bill Ward Pays Tribute To Slipknot Bassist Paul Gray

Black Sabbath's Bill Ward has paid tribute to Slipknot bassist Paul Gray who died at the age of 38 on Monday (May 24).

Calling Gray “an incredible bass player”, Ward said his death was “another big loss for metal music” in the wake of Ronnie James Dio's passing earlier this month.

According to Metal Hammer, Ward's full statement reads: “My wife and I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to Paul Gray’s family and friends. Our condolences also extend to each member of Slipknot. We wish everyone who knew Paul love, tolerance and eventual peace of mind.

“Paul played in an incredible band. He was an incredible bass player. His death is another big loss for metal music, but his spirit and his love will forever ascend and teach. Thanks for the music, Paul.”

Korn, Papa Roach, Anthrax, Good Charlotte and Buck Cherry are amongst the other big names who have paid homage to Gray.

On Tuesday, the eight remaining members of Slipknot removed their masks at a press conference where they spoke of their love for the bassist.

Singer Corey Taylor said: "Yesterday we lost our brother, and the world seems a little smaller because of it. He had the biggest heart of anyone I've ever known... The only way I can sum up Paul Gray is love."

Shawn Crahan said Gray was “the essence of the band” and credited their success to him.

Meanwhile, an autopsy on Gray’s body has proved inconclusive pending the results of toxicology tests, which could take four to six weeks to be completed.

The bassist was one of the original members of Slipknot, who formed in Des Moines in 1995.