2 weeks Ago By Natalie Oganesyan
Rock band My Chemical Romance paid tribute to former drummer Bob Bryar following his death . “It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Bob Bryar, our former bandmate and an important part of the history of My Chemical Romance,” band members Gerard Way (lead vocalist), Ray Toro (lead guitarist), Frank Iero (rhythm guitarist) and Mikey Way (bassist) wrote in a joint statement posted to Instagram alongside a photo of Bryar performing. Bryar had the distinction of being the influential group’s longest-tenured drummer, serving MCR from 2004 to 2010.
MCR eventually disbanded in 2013, reuniting in 2019 for a tour, new material, additional festival performances and a forthcoming 2025 stadium tour. Meanwhile, Bryar retired from drumming in 2021, and MCR has not replaced his spot with a full-time drummer since his departure. “We send our deepest condolences to his friends and family at this time,” the statement continued.
“May he rest in peace.” The musician, sound engineer and double platinum artist’s body was found Nov. 26 at his home in Tennessee after he was last seen alive three weeks prior.
Bryar’s cause of death is currently under investigation, according to TMZ , but no foul play is suspected as all of his weapons were found untouched. He was 44. Born Dec.
31, 1979 in Chicago, Bryar began drumming at a young age, performing with his school marching band before going on to study sound engineering at University of Florida. Following his career as a musician, during which he also worked with acts like The Used and Thrice, he got into real estate and was an avid dog rescue charity supporter. Of working with MCR, Bryar told Alternative Press in 2016: “I was so happy to receive the offer.
Long before we recorded ‘Welcome to the Black Parade,’ I knew that [MCR] were special and I wanted in. I wanted to help evolve the band and be able to shred with them every night. I think my last huge memory was playing [a sold out show at] MSG to end the tour.
I never thought that would ever happen to me, and I still can’t believe that was for real.”.
