Musician dies in 'freak Donegal swimming accident': 'His family are in shock'
Jock drowned in Bundoran, Ireland on 26 July 2025, and the news was confirmed by the band's drummer Pat Pattyn on social media.
"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..." he wrote. Fans of Jock McDonald are in shock (Image: Daily Record)
Devastated supporters were left reeling by the announcement and rushed to social media to share their own heartfelt messages for the beloved performer.
"Sad news to announce the lost of my best friend of 45 years the famous Jock Mcdonald who sadly lost his life this morning RIP My friend a true legend my heart goes out to all members of his family. Thanks for the great life we had together with The B****** Brothers," one mourner penned.
"It is with sadness that we learned today of the death of Jock Mcdonald, charismatic singer of The B*****k Brothers. We will remember you in the Barock, your poster will remain. We will remember you for your kindness, your friendliness, your love for Belgium and Germany, your love of football and your involvement in punk since its very beginnings. Rest in peace and thank you," another penned. The grim news emerged last night (Image: Daily Record)
"I can't and I will not believe what happens. May he rest in heavenly peace," a third chimed in.
A fourth shared: "R.I.P. Jock, wherever you are - may you rest in peace! Over 40 years of friendship, from the early days of The BB's to now. We laughed so much, made plans, and shared good times. You'll never be forgotten here. The good memories will last forever. We'll miss your visits too... Our deepest condolences go out to your family and many friends. We will never forget, very good memories with that one."
"Dear Jock, you shaped the course of my childhood. You gave so many wonderful, crazy times to so many people. Rest in peace. We will never forget you," a fifth commented.
Meanwhile a sixth wrote: "RIP Jock Mcdonald, I can't believe what happened. A bathing accident in his beloved Ireland. I have no words and I'm completely in shock. You will stay in our hearts forever."
The musician had been working on fresh material including a new single and album at the time of his passing.
He established the band in 1979 and they went on to release nine studio albums, four live records and 28 singles during their career.
In addition to their original hits like Horror Movies, The Bunker, The Legend of the Snake and The Slow Removal of the Left Ear of Vincent van Gogh, they've also covered tracks by artists such as Led Zeppelin, Steppenwolf, David Bowie, Vangelis and more.
They are most recognised for their English-language rendition of Serge Gainsbourg's French tune Harley David (Son of a B***h) and Alex Harvey's Faith Healer.
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