By Amelia Hernandez | SAN FRANCISCO – 2025/09/06 12:15:07

Bruce Loose, the longtime singer-bassist of Flipper, has passed away at the age of 66. The San Francisco-based punk band, known for its influential sound, impacted numerous artists, including Nirvana, and at one point featured Krist Novoselic as their bassist.

An proclamation on the “Who Cares Anyways SF” Instagram page stated, “After a prolonged struggle with life, Bruce ‘Loose’ Calderwood of Flipper passed away from an apparent heart attack earlier this week at the age of 66.” The news was also confirmed on Flipper’s official Facebook page.

After the band’s formation in 1979,Loose quickly took over from original singer Ricky Williams. He shared vocal and bass responsibilities with Will Shatter, who died in 1987. Loose remained a member of Flipper until 2015,when he decided to leave the band. In recent years, Jesus Lizard vocalist David Yow has been the frontman for Flipper.

Flipper’s Influence on Music

“After a prolonged struggle with life, Bruce ‘Loose’ Calderwood of Flipper passed away from an apparent heart attack earlier this week at the age of 66.”

Flipper substantially influenced Kurt Cobain, who famously wore a self-made Flipper T-shirt during Nirvana’s performance on Saturday Night Live and in the music video for “Come As You Are.”

Novoselic was a member of the band from 2006 to 2009, and they frequently performed Nirvana’s “Scentless Apprentice,” which Flipper covered for a 2000 compilation.

Besides nirvana, Flipper has influenced bands such as R.E.M., the Melvins, and Jane’s Addiction, among others.

Our condolences are extended to Bruce Loose’s family, friends, and bandmates during this difficult time.