'70s Rock Frontman, 81, to Miss Several Shows After Surgery
Eric Bloom, the frontman of the '70s classic rock group Blue Öyster Cult, will miss several shows as he undergoes surgery.
On Wednesday, May 13, music journalist Mitch Lafontook to Facebook with a statement from Bloom, 81, that included an unexpected health update.
"During BÖC's time off I scheduled a non-life threatening surgical procedure," the message from Bloom began. "I am on the mend, but the recovery is taking a little longer than expected."
He added, "Kasim Sulton will be standing in for me for a few shows and knock it out of the park! I'll see you soon."
Bloom's temporary replacement, Sulton, served as a backup vocalist and bassist for the band from 2012 to 2017, per Ultimate Classic Rock.
As of writing, it's unclear how many shows Bloom will sit out. Blue Öyster Cult's next show is set for Saturday, May 16, in Oroville, Calif. After that, the band will perform on June 5 in Albuquerque, N.M., and June 10 in Del Mar, Calif.
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Fans sent well-wishes as Bloom continues healing from his surgery, with one Facebook user commenting, "Get well soon!!!" On X, one fan wrote, "Prayers for Eric!" as another echoed, "Get well soon, Eric!"
Blue Öyster Cult is best known for songs such as "(Don't Fear) The Reaper," "Godzilla" (1977), and "Burnin' for You" (1981), among others.
Additionally, the rock group was portrayed in the popular Saturday Night Live skit, "More Cowbell," which aired in 2000.
Next: Iconic '80s Star Bonnie Tyler, 74, in Induced Coma After Emergency Surgery
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This story was originally published May 14, 2026 at 9:56 AM.