Brit Turner, who died this weekend aged 57, received a standing ovation during his triumphant return weeks after brain surgery in 2022.
Blackberry Smoke’s Brit Turner has had a trying 2022. He suffered a heart attack in August and then brain surgery in November after a tumor was discovered during a routine MRI. Turner continued to battle glioblastoma (brain cancer) over the next two years, until his death last weekend at age 57. Despite everything, his strength and perseverance never wavered, especially as he continued to tour with Blackberry Smoke whenever he could.
Turner’s fortitude and love of music were never more evident than during his first concert with Blackberry Smoke on November 25, 2022, shortly after his surgery. The occasion was made even more special because Blackberry Smoke was performing in his hometown at the Fox Theater in Atlanta. When lead singer Charlie Starr introduced the band, he said Turner was ” returned to where he was born to be “.
A massive ovation followed, and after a few minutes, Starr joked: “ You just said it better than we could have! »
Of course, the show was also packed with music, including a thunderous rendition of “ Waiting for the Thunder » in the opening, and a special cover of “ You Can’t Always Get What You Want » by the Rolling Stones during the encore.
After Turner’s death was announced Sunday, tributes poured in from the music world. Guns ‘N Roses guitarist Slash called the drummer ” great guy and awesome musician ”, adding: “ He will be greatly missed “. Butch Walker added: “ My long-time brother is gone. I am heartbroken and cried all night, but I know he is finally at peace. Long live Brit Turner. »
And Luke Combs wrote: “ Shit. I can not believe it. Brit was so great to me when he didn’t need to be. RIP. »
After announcing Turner’s death, Blackberry Smoke also shared a donation page for the nonprofit Families and Communities Together (FACT) Relief. The group encouraged fans to donate if they could: the organization aims to support families when the head of the household is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. “ Although the Turner family is financially stable, as we discuss options, research and make plans for the future, we know there will be unforeseen situationswrote the group. Remaining funds are allocated to deserving causes. »
Blackberry Smoke released their latest album, Be Right Herewith Turner on drums, last month.
