‘Extraordinary talent’
Linkin Park singer’s death strikes similarities to Chris Cornell’s
NEW YORK — The death of Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington came as a surprise to the world when it was announced, but it also struck similarities to the death of fellow rocker and close friend Chris Cornell, who killed himself in May.
Authorities are investigating Bennington’s death as an apparent suicide, Los Angeles County coroner spokesman Brian Elias said Thursday. Bennington, who was 41, was found dead in his home near Los Angeles. He had a strong bond with Cornell and died on what would have been the Soundgarden singer’s 53rd birthday.
Bennington was also the godfather to Cornell’s 11-year-old son, Chris. And Bennington sang Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah at Cornell’s memorial.
The Cornells called Bennington a member of their family in a statement released Thursday.
“The Cornell family is overwhelmed by the heartbreaking news about Chester Bennington which tragically comes so soon after their family’s own loss,” said a Cornell family spokesperson. “They open up their loving arms to Chester’s family and share in the sorrow with all those who loved him.”
Cornell died by hanging after a concert in Detroit. Linkin Park was set to go on tour next week.
Bennington helped Linkin Park, whose sound mixed rap and rock, become one of the most commercially successful acts in the 2000s. The Grammy-winning group sold more than 10 million copies of their 2000 debut, Hybrid Theory, which featured the megahit and anthem, In the End. They sold another 6 million with 2003’s multiplatinum Meteora. Both albums explored feelings of frustration and fury.
Bennington struggled with drug and alcohol addictions at various times during his life. He said he had been sexually abused as a child and was homeless for months before the band found fame.
Linkin Park released their most recent album, One More Light, in May. It was an album that divided critics and fans alike for its embrace of moody pop. One song on the album, Heavy, opens with the words: “I don’t like my mind right now.”
Bennington told The Associated Press in 2010 that because of the sound the band is known for — fusing sounds from nu-metal, punk, rock, pop and hip-hop — it was virtually impossible to satisfy their many kinds of fans.
“We’re making music for us, that we like. We’re not making music for other people,” he said. “We’re not thinking, ‘Let’s make a pie-graph of all our fans and find out how many people fit in whatever category and then make the perfect album for them.’ Like, that would be absolutely ridiculous.”
Bennington was married to his second wife, Talinda, and is survived by six children.
Reactions to Bennington’s death: “Shocked and heartbroken, but it’s true.” — Linkin Park bandmate Mike Shinoda, on Twitter
“So sorry to hear the news about Chester Bennington. Sending so much luv, strength & light to his family, kids & @linkinpark ohana.” — Dwayne Johnson, on Twitter
“Literally the most impressive talent I’ve ever seen live! Vocal beast! #RIPChester #LinkinPark.” — Rihanna, on Twitter
“RIP CHESTER BENNINGTON. We can never know someone’s pain. Prayers to his family in this tragedy. If you need help REACH OUT.” — Paul Stanley, on Twitter
“Chester Bennington was an artist of extraordinary talent and charisma, and a human being with a huge heart and a caring soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with his beautiful family, his bandmates and his many friends.” — Warner Bros. CEO and Chairman Cameron Stang, in a statement
“The first concert I took my oldest son to: @linkinpark. #ChesterBennington was a genius & a gentleman. He inspired both of us.” — Donnie Wahlberg, on Twitter “RIP Chester Bennington. This feels like a kick in the chest. My December has pulled me through many times. Depression is a real monster.” Gabourey Sidibe, on Twitter
“RIP to a legend (too soon)” — Akon, on Facebook “The news about Chester Bennington is devastating. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and @linkinpark. Such a tragic loss” — Ryan Seacrest, on Twitter
“RIP Chester Bennington, another incredible talent lost to something the world needs to learn more about and understand.” — Conor Maynard, on Twitter “no words. so heartbroken. RIP Chester Bennington.” — Imagine Dragons, on Twitter
“Mental health is no joke. We have to destigmatize the conversation around it.” — Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz, on Twitter
“RIP The legend Chester. You were and will continue to be a huge inspiration to us.” — The Chainsmokers, on Twitter
“RIP Chester. Tragic ending. Condolences his family and friends and Linkin Park.” — Chance the Rapper, on Twitter
“Gracious, kind & humble. A rare combination in Rock & Roll. Deeply saddened” — Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, on Twitter