Kutless Guitarist James Mead Shares Recovery Progress After Stroke

Kutless is asking for continued prayers and support for longtime guitarist and co-founding member James Mead, who suffered a stroke on July 26, 2025. Mead, who has been an integral creative force in shaping the band's sound since its beginning, is currently in recovery and making encouraging progress with the help of his medical team, family, and the support of fans around the world.

"I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who has supported me and my family since my stroke," Mead shared. "We still have a long road ahead to full recovery, but thanks to your support we're not walking it alone." He noted that his walking is improving, he is focusing on new exercises for balance and coordination, and his doctors are encouraged by his steady progress.

The news of Mead's stroke comes just weeks after the release of Kutless' powerful new EP The Seventh Seal, which dropped on June 28, 2025. The project marks a return to the band's heavier rock roots, with songs like "Midnight," "End of the World" featuring Kevin Young of Disciple, and "Hold On" featuring Dawn Michele of Fireflight exploring themes of faith, perseverance, and spiritual struggle. The EP has been widely praised for its honesty and intensity, with critics commending the band for wrestling openly with real-life challenges in their music.

James Mead's passion for Kutless has always extended beyond the stage. In addition to his role as guitarist and songwriter, he has co-hosted the band's podcast Rock in a Hard Place, served in pastoral ministry, and earned a degree in Biblical Studies from Grand Canyon University. Now, as he works toward recovery, the band and Mead's family-his wife Lindsay and son Jacob-are leaning on the strength of their faith and the prayers of their community.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover medical expenses and support the Mead family during this season. Kutless has expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of love, encouragement, and generosity from fans and friends, emphasizing that Mead's healing journey is one they are all walking together.

Formed in Portland, Oregon in 1999, Kutless has sold more than 3 million records worldwide and is known for songs such as Strong Tower and What Faith Can Do. With the release of The Seventh Seal and their ongoing commitment to ministry through music, the band remains focused on creating honest, faith-driven songs that connect with listeners even in the midst of life's hardest trials.

For more information, updates on James Mead's recovery, or to learn how to support the family, visit www.kutless.com or the official GoFundMe page Support James Mead's Stroke Recovery.

 

 

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