Limp Bizkit founding guitarist Sam Rivers has died at the age of 48

Sam Rivers, Limp Bizkit’s founding guitarist, has died at the age of 48, the band announced on Saturday.

“Today we lost our brother. Our bandmate. Our heartbeat,” the band wrote in a message. Instagram share. “Sam Rivers wasn’t just our bass player – he was a pure magician. The pulse under every song, the calm in the chaos, and the soul in the sound.”

The post did not mention the cause of death.

Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, Limp Bizkit and lead singer Fred Durst rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their blend of rock and hip-hop.

Rivers also sang backup vocals for the band, which topped the radio charts with songs including “Break Stuff,” “Nookie,” “Re-Arranged” and “My Way.”

“From the first note we played together, Sam brought a light and rhythm that can never be replaced. His talent was effortless, his presence was unforgettable, and his heart was enormous,” the band wrote in the post. “We shared so many moments — the wild ones, the quiet ones, the beautiful ones — and every one of them meant so much more because Sam was there.”

The tribute was signed by Durst along with band members Wes Borland, John Otto and DJ Lethal.

“He was a once-in-a-lifetime person. A true legend. His spirit will live forever in every groove, every stage, and every memory.” “We love you, Sam. We’ll always carry you with us. Rest easy, brother. Your music never ends.”

In a comment on the post, Lior Demant – also known as DJ Lethal – asked people to “please respect the family’s privacy at this moment.” He added that fans can “give Sam his flowers” by playing his bass lines all day long.

“Rest in power, brother,” Demant wrote. “You will live on through your music and the lives you helped save through your music, your philanthropy, and your friendships.”