Ariana Grande, Travis Barker and more paid tribute to the late artist.
Aaron Spears, a Grammy-nominated drummer who played with a variety of well-known musicians, passed away at the age of 47.
His wife Jessica announced his death on his Instagram account on Monday, Oct. 30, saying, “It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears.”
“Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer, admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music, but he was also a devoted father to our precious son, August,” Jessica went on, in a touching message about her husband. “His love, guidance, and warmth were the pillars of our family, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot describe.”
She continued, “We were blessed to have him in our lives, and his legacy will live on through the beautiful rhythms he created and the love he shared with us.”
Jessica then thanked everyone for “all the thoughts and prayers” and asked for privacy as the family grieves, while also requesting: “Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world.”
Many fellow drummers, musicians, people who worked with Spears and those who were close to him shared kind messages and tributes in the comments.
Ariana Grande wrote, “heartbroken. my condolences to you all. i love you guys and i am so sorry. my heart is with you.”
The day the news dropped, Grande also shared a message about Spears on her own Instagram Stories, via People, saying, “I can’t wrap my head around this. We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being. Always the kindest, always smiling.”
“I am so honored and thankful that our paths crossed and to have spent so much very special time together. Thank you for your utter brilliance, for our laughs, and for your kindness always. I will miss your hugs. You are so, so loved and will be so very missed,” she concluded.
“I have no words. I love you so much my brother and will miss you. This doesn’t seem real. Praying for you Jessica and August,” wrote Travis Barker.
Justin Bieber shared videos of himself playing drums with Spears on his Instagram Stories, writing, “We lost a beautiful man and inspiration to all of us drummers. @aspears prayers for your family and loved ones you will be remembered and celebrated.”
Many more shared tributes and condolences, including Questlove of The Roots, Michelle Williams, and other drummers like Daniel Fang of Turnstile and Mark Guiliana of Beat Music.
SOURCE:PARADE