“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”.
Four days ago, Linkin Park‘s lead singer – Chester Bennington – took his own life. We covered it the day it happened, and it’s since been confirmed that Bennington did indeed die by suicide. After a history of mental health issues, substance abuse, and childhood trauma, the late musician was sadly driven to that final breaking point.
Linkin Park have written a tribute to Bennington which is enough to re-open the wounds left in the wake of Bennington’s death:
“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”.
The band conclude the letter with:
“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”.
These are only snippets, so read the letter in full here.
The band have also launched a suicide prevention site for those who may also be struggling. As I type, more and more tweets with the hashtag #RIPChester are making their way onto the site.
Finally, check out this video below where Bennington explains what it feels like in his head, likening it to a “bad neighbourhood” that he shouldn’t walk alone in; perhaps it will help you understand why he chose to leave it behind forever:
#Peace.Love.ChesterBennington
