The Rev
The wildly inventive drummer and songwriter whose chaotic, virtuosic energy helped propel Avenged Sevenfold to heavy metal's forefront.
1981–2009 (age 28)·American musician·Birthday: February 9·Millennials
Biography
James 'The Rev' Sullivan was the explosive, creative core of Avenged Sevenfold, a drummer who played with the technical precision of a jazz musician and the anarchic spirit of a punk rocker. Co-founding the band in Huntington Beach, California, in 1999, his playing was immediately distinctive—complex, fill-heavy, and melodically adventurous, refusing to be mere timekeeping. The Rev's contributions extended far beyond the kit; he was a key songwriter, penning lyrics and music for fan favorites, and his high, clear backing vocals became a signature part of the band's sound. His side project, Pinkly Smooth, showcased his love for avant-garde metal and piano. His sudden death in 2009 at age 28 sent shockwaves through the music world, leaving a void defined by his irreplaceable talent and gregarious personality. The band's subsequent album, 'Nightmare,' served as a tribute to his artistry, cementing his legacy as one of modern metal's most original and missed voices.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
The was born in 1981, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When The Was Born
The biggest hits of 1981
#1 Movie
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Best Picture
Chariots of Fire
#1 TV Show
Dallas
The's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1981Born
MTV launches; first Space Shuttle flight; AIDS identified
Gas: $1.31/galHome: $52,300Min wage: $3.35/hrPresident: Ronald Reagan"Bette Davis Eyes" — Kim CarnesBest Picture: Chariots of Fire
1986Started school
Challenger disaster; Chernobyl nuclear meltdown
Gas: $0.86/galHome: $66,600Min wage: $3.35/hrPresident: Ronald Reagan"That's What Friends Are For" — Dionne & FriendsBest Picture: Platoon
1994Became a teenager
Nelson Mandela elected president of South Africa
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $90,400Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"The Sign" — Ace of BaseBest Picture: Forrest Gump
1997Could drive
Princess Diana dies in Paris car crash; Harry Potter published
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $104,100Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Candle in the Wind 1997" — Elton JohnBest Picture: Titanic
1999Could vote
Columbine shooting; Y2K panic builds
Gas: $1.17/galHome: $113,900Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Believe" — CherBest Picture: American Beauty
2002Turned 21
Euro currency enters circulation
Gas: $1.36/galHome: $137,800Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"How You Remind Me" — NickelbackBest Picture: Chicago
2009Died at 28
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
Key Achievements
- Co-founded Avenged Sevenfold and served as its primary drummer and a major songwriter until his death.
- Won the 'Best Drummer' award at the 2006 Kerrang! Awards, recognizing his impact and skill.
- Co-wrote and sang lead vocals on the hit Avenged Sevenfold song 'A Little Piece of Heaven,' showcasing his diverse musicality.
- Played drums, piano, and provided vocals for the avant-garde metal side project Pinkly Smooth.
- His drumming is featured on Avenged Sevenfold's breakthrough album 'City of Evil,' which achieved platinum status.
Did You Know?
He was ambidextrous, which contributed to his incredibly fluid and fast drumming technique.
The Rev was a skilled pianist and often composed music on the piano before translating it to the band.
His stage name, 'The Rev,' was short for 'The Reverend Tholomew Plague,' a character he created.
He was a fan of comedian Mitch Hedberg and would often quote his jokes.
“I just try to be as creative as possible and not limit myself to what a drummer should do.”
