News of Chester Bennington’s suicide has broken the hearts of thousands of people who found comfort in the words sung by him. ‘In the End’, ‘Waiting For the End’, ‘Numb’, ‘Leave Out the Rest’ were just some of the songs that spoke at length about what Chester was going through for many years of his life. In fact, many have pointed out that his last album appeared to be a cry for help, with song titles such as ‘Nobody Can Save Me’ and ‘Good Goodbye’.
The iconic musician has left a huge vacuum in the hearts of those who loved him and social media is pouring with words of love and sadness for the frontman of Linkin Park. Celebrities have also taken to Twitter to express their shock and grief, including the likes of Mike Shinoda, Chester’s close friend and band mate for all these years, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, Fall Our Boy’s Pete Wentz, Justin Timberlake, Dwayne Johnson and countless others.
Shinoda was the first one to confirm the news: “Shocked and heartbroken, but it’s true. An official statement will come out as soon as we have one.”
Ryan Seacrest also called the incident “a tragic loss” while Justin Timberlake remembered Chester for how humble and down to earth he was.
Metallica’s drummer and co-founder also commented on how kind and gracious Chester Bennington was.
Dwayne Johnson, who has himself struggled with depression and suicidal tendencies in the past, tweeted:
Chester’s music wasn’t just inspirational to those who loved rock and nu metal, even contemporary artists such as Chainsmokers were inspired by his work.
The frontman also inspired people with his commitment to animal rights and PETA’s Vice President, Collen O’Brian reminded everyone in a statement that said: “PETA will always remember Chester Bennington as a musical powerhouse and a powerful force for animal rights. He bared his skin to help animals keep theirs in PETA’s ‘Ink, Not Mink’ campaign, and he spoke passionately about both the cruelty of the fur industry and the need to adopt homeless dogs and cats.”
Other rock bands also paid their respect to the star. “Mental health is no joke. We have to destigmatize the conversation around it.” tweeted Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz.
Daron Malakian of System of A Down, shared his thoughts on Facebook. “So shocked and saddened by the news of Chester Bennington’s passing. I remember the first time I met Chester. I was in a bad mood backstage and he came into the dressing room and lifted my spirits before I took the stage. Working with Chester and Linkin Park on the song ‘Rebellion’ was some of the most fun I’ve had collaborating with another artist. They made me feel right at home when I joined them on stage at the Hollywood Bowl and at the Forum. Our hearts go out to Linkin Park and to Chester’s family. Chester Bennington will be missed.”
Imagine Dragons and Nickelback also took to Twitter:
The world is mourning this great loss and it truly is the end of an era.
