A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Keith Collins, the founding bassist of SAVATAGE, who is battling dementia.
Collins was in the band from 1981 to 1985, first in its earlier incarnation as AVATAR and then through SAVATAGE's first three albums — “Sirens”, “The Dungeons Are Calling” and “Power Of The Night” — the records that established the Oliva brothers' band as one of the cornerstones of American heavy metal.
The fundraiser was started by Glenn Dillman, Collins' former bandmate in KRUNCH, who laid out both the man's contribution and his present situation.
“Keith Collins has been a driving force in the Tampa Bay music scene for decades,” Dillman wrote. “As the original bass player in SAVATAGE, founder of Keith Collins KRUNCH, and co-host of ‘The Pit’ radio show on 98rock, Keith helped shape the rise of heavy metal music locally and worldwide. He also published The Spike music magazine and created the Tampa Bay Metal Awards, always working to support and uplift fellow musicians. Keith's passion and dedication have left a lasting impact on countless lives, including mine as one of his bandmates.”
The immediate problem is not only medical. “Now, Keith is facing a difficult chapter. He is suffering from dementia and, due to circumstances early in his life, is unable to qualify for social security benefits that could help with his worsening condition,” Dillman continued. “Without an income, Keith needs help with daily living expenses and, most importantly, legal assistance to establish his identity so he can finally access the benefits he deserves. This support is crucial for his well-being and peace of mind.”
Dementia describes a loss of cognitive function — thinking, remembering and reasoning — severe enough to interfere with daily life, ranging from mild early-stage impairment to complete dependence on others for basic care.
“Any help you can give will make a real difference for Keith during this challenging time,” Dillman added. “Your generosity will not only provide for his immediate needs but also help secure his future. Thank you for supporting someone who has given so much to the music community and to those around him.”
The news arrives at a striking moment for SAVATAGE's legacy: it comes the same weekend the band performed with a 40-piece orchestra at the Amphitheater of Pompeii, closing that show with “Hall Of The Mountain King” and playing “Sirens” and “Power Of The Night” — two title tracks from albums Collins played on more than forty years ago.