The pain still lingers six months on for Limp Bizkit's guitarist Wes Borland as he reflects on the devastating loss of his bandmate Sam Rivers. It's a grief that cuts deep, with Borland admitting it's tough to discuss in detail – "He was like family... I'm gonna try not to cry" – but one that underscores just how profoundly Rivers' passing has affected them all. The 48-year-old bassist was an integral part of the nu-metal band's DNA since their formation in '94, and his loss leaves a gaping void.
When news of Rivers' passing spread last October, the band rallied around him with heartfelt tributes. Frontman Fred Durst shared a poignant video message, describing Sam as "such a gifted, unbelievably sweet and wonderful person", while the collective issued a statement praising him as a "true legend of legends" whose spirit would live on in their music.
Since then, the band has largely kept their emotions private, but Wes Borland's recent interview with Consequence offers a glimpse into their ongoing struggle. He candidly spoke about Rivers' irreplaceable role within Limp Bizkit – "Sam was the heartbeat" of the group – and praised touring bassist Richie Buxton for stepping up to fill the void.
While Borland acknowledged that Buxton is an excellent player, he underlined that Sam's contribution goes far beyond his technical skills. "He was a piece of our soul," Wes said, before adding that "Sam is not a replaceable person" – highlighting the unique dynamic Rivers brought to their sound and performances.
Limp Bizkit are set for a busy summer festival season, including headline slots at Download Festival in the UK and elsewhere across Europe. They've also got new music on the horizon, with 'Making Love To Morgan Wallen' released last September as part of their 2021 album 'Still Sucks'. For fans back home, Limp Bizkit's extensive discography is readily available on major streaming platforms – a testament to Sam Rivers' enduring legacy within the band and beyond.
As the band navigates this challenging period, they can count on the unwavering support of their devoted fanbase. UK supporters will be eager to see Limp Bizkit take to the stages across Europe, knowing that every show is a celebration of Sam Rivers' life and music – a testament to his indelible mark on the band.
Though specific documentaries or concert films detailing their history may not always be readily available in the UK on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video or YouTube, Limp Bizkit's vast discography ensures that fans can immerse themselves in Sam Rivers' remarkable contributions whenever they choose to do so.