Grammy-nominated drummer and producer who played with Usher, Ariana Grande, and more has died today at 47. He is survived by his son August and his wife Jessica, who made the announcement on Aaron’s Instagram page. The news comes just four days after his birthday.
“It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears. 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.
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.”
Many in the drumming community left comments to give condolences to the late drumming legend.
“I can’t even find the words right now. I am truly heartbroken💔,” wrote fellow drummer Nate Smith in the comments. “A brilliant musician and a kindhearted man. I’m so proud to have known him.”
“I have no words,” said Travis Barker. “I love you so much my brother and will miss you. This doesn’t seem real. Praying for you, Jessica, and August.💔🙏🏼”
YouTube drummer coop3rdrumm3r commented, “I don’t even know what to say. The love that Aaron had for music and drumming was incredible and I enjoyed talking with him about that, but I was most proud of the love he had for his family. We had multiple long conversations talking about our wonderful families and the joy of being a father and husband. You could tell he was most proud of that even above all of his incredible musical accomplishments. I will forever cherish the inspiration and musical love he brought to my life and will be praying for you, Jessica and August.”
“Destroyed but this news, still doesn’t feel real,” said Cobus Potgieter. “I will never forget your encouragement my friend, and your deep love for everybody around you. Immeasurable loss. Praying for you Jessica and August”
Aaron Spears has a long list of touring and production credits to his name including Usher, Gideon Band, Chrisette Michelle, Chamilionaire, David Cook, Joanne Rosario, Lil Wayne, Carrie Underwood, Usher, Jordin Sparks, Chaka Khan, Adam Lambert, Israel Houghton, Mary Mary, The Backstreet Boys, Miley Cyrus, Tiziano Ferro, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and most recently Ariana Grande.
Ariana posted a story update to her Instagram account, commenting on Aaron’s passing. “I can’t wrap my head around this. We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute bright of a human being. Always the kindest, always smiling. I am so honored and thankful that our paths crossed and to have spent so much very special time together. Thank you for your utter brilliance, for our laughs, and for your kindness always. I will miss your hugs. You are so, so loved and will be so very missed.”
In 2004, Spears received a Grammy nomination for his work on the USHER album “Confessions.” He served as The Masked Singer’s third season’s drummer and music coordinator. Additionally, Spears made multiple appearances on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” episodes from Season 5.
Days before his passing, on October 26, Spears celebrated his birthday. To commemorate the occasion, he shared his thanks on social media.
“With every trip around the sun that God blesses me with, my heart is filled with more gratitude and I’m more focused on the things that are most important,” Spears wrote. “I love and appreciate each of you for your kindness towards me, my gift and also to my family…This has honestly been one of the best years of my life!!! I’m so thankful that God is still keeping His promises re: me…It’s crazy!!! Even though today is MY BIRTHDAY , I hope that you encounter something on this incredible day that makes your heart smile.”
As of now, the cause of death is not known.
