Linkin Park Statement on Chester Bennington: 'Your Absence Leaves a Void That Can Never Be Filled'
The outpouring of sorrow amongst members the rock world has been plenty in the wake of Chester Bennington's death. And while many of the Linkin Park's singer's peers have had their say, the band members themselves have mostly been quiet since Bennington's suicide last Thursday (July 20). Understandably, they have taken the time to grieve and process the tragic loss before further addressing the singer's death.
Mike Shinoda did tweet to fans hours after the news of Bennington's death went public that sadly it was true and other members have offered brief social media statements, but the band has now issued a heartfelt statement on the singer's death. It can be read below as follows:
Dear Chester,
Our hearts are broken. The shockwaves of grief and denial are still sweeping through our family as we come to grips with what has happened.
You touched so many lives, maybe even more than you realized. In the past few days, we've seen an outpouring of love and support, both public and private, from around the world. Talinda and the family appreciate it, and want the world to know that you were the best husband, son, and father; the family will never be whole without you.
Talking with you about the years ahead together, your excitement was infectious. Your absence leaves a void that can never be filled—a boisterous, funny, ambitious, creative, kind, generous voice in the room is missing. We're trying to remind ourselves that the demons who took you away from us were always part of the deal. After all, it was the way you sang about those demons that made everyone fall in love with you in the first place. You fearlessly put them on display, and in doing so, brought us together and taught us to be more human. You had the biggest heart, and managed to wear it on your sleeve.
Our love for making and performing music is inextinguishable. While we don't know what path our future may take, we know that each of our lives was made better by you. Thank you for that gift. We love you, and miss you so much.
Until we see you again,
Linkin Park announced on Friday that their scheduled "One More Light" North American tour, which was set to kick off July 27, has been canceled and that refunds will be available. This also goes for the "Blinkin Park" shows that were to feature the band playing alongside Blink-182 as well.
In the aftermath of Bennington's death, the band launched a special site where fans, friends and peers could honor Bennington. Included on the site is the frequently shared photo of Bennington above a crowd surrounded by lights from fans in the crowd, as well as contact information for suicide prevention organizations. Many fans have been using the hashtag #RIPChester with their posts. Check out the site here.
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Source: Linkin Park Statement on Chester Bennington: 'Your Absence Leaves a Void That Can Never Be Filled'
Filed Under: Chester Bennington, Linkin Park
Categories: Loudwire News, Rock