Sam Rivers, the bassist for the band Limp Bizkit, passed away on Saturday. His bandmates announced the news on social media, expressing their sadness and admiration for him.
Tributes to Sam Rivers from Limp Bizkit
The band praised Rivers as “pure magic” and said he was “the soul in the sound.” In a joint Instagram post, they remembered how his light and rhythm were irreplaceable, highlighting his immense talent and unforgettable presence.
Fred Durst, the band’s lead vocalist, shared a video describing how he and Rivers met in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. He expressed profound grief, stating he has shed “gallons and gallons of tears” since learning of Rivers’ passing.
Rivers’ Health Issues and Band History
Rivers, 48, had previously discussed his struggles with heavy drinking that led to liver disease. He left the band in 2015 but received a liver transplant and rejoined Limp Bizkit in 2018.
Limp Bizkit is set to begin a tour across Central and South America, starting in Mexico City later in November.
The Impact of Rivers’ Music
Durst mentioned their shared love for grunge music, referencing bands like Mother Love Bone and Alice in Chains. He admired Rivers’ unique ability to evoke profound emotions through his bass playing.
Limp Bizkit, which originated in Jacksonville, Florida, gained fame in the late 1990s for blending alternative rock, heavy metal, and rap. Their humor is evident in their iconic album titles and recent singles.