Aaron Spears, renowned touring drummer who played with Usher, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Miley Cyrus, among others, has died at the age of 47.
Aaron Spears, the renowned touring drummer who played alongside Usher, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus, among others, has died at age 47, his family announced on Monday.
Spears’ wife, Jessica Spears, confirmed the news of her husband’s death in an Instagram post shared on the drummer’s page. The post did not include a time, date or place of death for Spears or a cause of death.
“It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears,” she wrote. “Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer, admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music; but he was also a devoted father to our precious son, August. His love, guidance, and warmth were the pillars of our family, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot describe.”
The message continued: “We were blessed to have him in our lives, and his legacy will live on through the beautiful rhythms he created and the love he shared with us. We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world. At this time we ask for privacy as we work our way through this.”
Spears earned a Grammy nomination for his production work on Usher’s highly successful “Confessions” album, which was nominated for album of the year at the 47th Grammy Awards.
He gained more acclaim in the drumming world after his now-legendary performance of Usher’s “Caught Up” at the 2006 Modern Drummer Festival.
