Ongoing History Daily: How do musicians die?

There’s been much study into the lifespan of musicians, a profession that’s loaded with a lot of dangerous situations and lifestyle choices. If we look at rock, the number one cause of death is some kind of accident, which accounts for about 24% of all fatal situations, which is about the same rate as cancer.

Next is heart-related, which can be blamed for 15% of all musician deaths. The suicide rate is 7% and homicide is just under 4%. If we narrow things down to punk, accidents are responsible for 30% of deaths, followed by cancer and heart problems. And if you’re into metal, accidents are also at the top of the list, but suicide is second at 19%.

And in case you’re wondering the homicide rate is highest among hip-hop and rap artists at 51%.