Matt Krupanski, a founding member and original drummer of Boysetsfire, has died. The Delaware-based post hardcore band confirmed his passing in a heartfelt message shared on social media, honoring the musician whose early contributions helped define their sound and identity.
“We hate to write this,” the statement read. “Today, the BSF family lost one of our founding members, our drummer Matt Krupanski. Words are failing us. Snapshots of memories skitter through our minds. Picking him up for our first tour from high school, which his parents had to give permission to leave early.”
‘We Are Gutted’: Band Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Drummer
In their tribute, the band addressed Krupanski’s loved ones directly, reflecting on the deep bond they shared with him over the years.
“We are so (expletive) sorry, George,” it continued. “We are so sorry, Carla. We are so sorry, Marc and Melissa. And our heart breaks for his daughter Georgie. We are so sorry. We are gutted. Our hearts are shredded. We lost a brother today.
“We are planning on a fundraiser for Georgie maybe for college or whatever the family decides. Matt you are missed and we love you.”
The message highlights both the depth of their loss and their intention to stand by his family, including plans to support his daughter in the future.
From Early Tours to Defining Albums With Boysetsfire
Krupanski was part of Boysetsfire’s original lineup when the band formed in 1994, alongside Nathan Gray, Josh Latshaw, Chad Istvan, and Darrell Hyde.
The group signed with Initial Records in 1997 and released its debut album, “The Day the Sun Went Out.” They followed with “After the Eulogy” in 2000, “Tomorrow Come Today” in 2003, and “The Misery Index: Notes from the Plague Years” in 2006, helping establish their place in the post-hardcore scene.
In their tribute, the band reflected on the early days that shaped their bond and creative path.
“Picking him up for our first tour from high school, which his parents had to give permission to leave early. Writing ATE and Rookie in his parents’ basement. Smoking cigars on the beach in North Carolina after playing a very misleading Bed and Breakfast (no bed no breakfast)”
Life After Music and Lasting Legacy
Krupanski stepped away from Boysetsfire in 2012 to pursue a career in architecture, building a new path beyond music. According to Metalsucks.net, he later became Director of Engineering at Hadley Exhibits Inc.
Even after his departure, the band continued to release new work, including “While a Nation Sleeps…” and their self titled album “Boysetsfire,” with Krupanski’s early influence remaining a lasting part of their sound.
In the wake of his death, tributes poured in from fellow musicians and fans who remembered him not only for his talent, but for the impact he had on those around him.
“I am so very sorry and absolutely lost for words. This is devastating. All my thoughts are with the whole BSF family crew and Matt‘s family of course… Rest easy Matt!” Ingo Knollmann, vocalist of DONOTS, wrote.
“I’m so sorry, totally heartbroken,” added Tucker Rule of THURSDAY.
Fans also shared their memories, with one writing, “Thank you, guys. BSF was Matt’s heart for so long. Much love.”
Another added, “So sorry to read this! Matt was a huge inspiration and influence when I started playing drums! RIP.”
As tributes continue to come in, it is clear that Krupanski’s legacy lives on through the music he helped create and the community he inspired.
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