Iconic punk rock star Jock McDonald dies in freak swimming accident aged 69
The B*****k Brothers frontman drowned in Bundoran, Ireland on July 26, 2025, with the band's drummer Pat Pattyn confirming the news on social media.
He wrote: 'It is with great sadness in my heart, I have to bring you this terrible news... sadly, our singer Jock Mcdonald has died last night in Ireland, apparently a freak swimming accident.
'His children asked me to tell you all via this way... his family and all the B*****k Brothers are in shock... we are going to try and give this a place, but that won't be easy...
'Please don't try to call us today, give us some time, please... Rest in peace, my friend... I will miss you...'
Fans took to social media to pay their own tributes to the star.
The B*****k Brothers star drowned in Bundoran, Ireland on July 26, with the band's drummer Pat Pattyn confirming the news social media on Monday
They penned: 'Sad news, Jock McDonald, The Bollock Brothers has passed. Another punk legend leaves us. RIP. He will be missed by many. Condolences to family and friends, bandmates and fans',
'Sad to hear about the passing of Jock McDonald from The Bollock Brothers. A true character, full of wit, charm, and punk rock spirit. He'll be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace, Jock',
'We are shocked to hear of the sudden death of our longtime friend and companion Jock McDonald, who tragically lost his life in a swimming accident in Ireland last night. Much strength to his family, friends, fans and band members. Rest in peace, Jock',
'Sad to hear we've lost Jock McDonald. I was a fan of the 4" be 2"s, for their humour as much as music. The video for One of the Lads is the best. He was an enthusiast and a chancer. I frequently got drunk with him at Gaz's Rockin' Blues. I'll raise a glass today',
'RIP Jock Mcdonald, you will be truly missed…',
'Yesterday, Jock McDonald, the voice and heart of the Bollock Brothers, was ripped from life in a tragic swimming accident. I can't believe it - 2022 I last saw him live in Meschede. It was a night to remember, raw, honest, loud - just like his music. This picture was taken back then and reminds me of that special moment.
Jock was not only an exceptional artist, but a true original. His voice, his energy, his way of taking the audience away - all that remains.
My thoughts are with his family, friends and all the fans who, like me, will not be forgotten.'
Prior to his untimely death, the star had been working on a new single and album.
He formed the iconic punk group in 1979 and they went on to release nine studio albums, four live albums and 28 singles throughout their career.
They are most recognised for their rendition of Serge Gainsbourg's French tune Harley David (Son of a B***h) and Alex Harvey's Faith Healer.
They also released huge hits such as Horror Movies, The Bunker, The Legend of the Snake and The Slow Removal of the Left Ear of Vincent van Gogh
But as well as their original songs, they have also covered track by artists such as Led Zeppelin, Steppenwolf, David Bowie, Vangelis.
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