On July 20, 2017, I was sitting in my house when I heard a terrifying news report that Chester Bennington had taken his own life. My initial reaction: I was completely shocked and in utter disbelief that the lead singer of Linkin Park was no longer alive. Within minutes, social media had taken over with memorial messages and tribute videos. It was almost impossible to come to terms with the fact that it was true and everything had suddenly changed for music fans and admirers of Bennington.
Personally, I was always drawn to Chester Bennington's voice, whether it played on the radio or in a movie. As a fan, I planned to attend the Blinkin Park tour on July 28 and had even purchased tickets. It was obvious that it would have been a phenomenal show and it was also the first time I was going to experience both bands perform live.
Chester completely changed the music world with his impact on millions of people. Besides his incredible vocals, Bennington was a very special person described as "funny" and "ambitious" by his band mates. There was an evident excitement to him that attracted people to listen to him and learn more about him as a person and musician. In a statement released by the members of Linkin Park, they now admit to themselves "that the demons that took you away from us were part of the deal."
Although Bennington openly disclosed not having an easy life through his music and in general, it was those messages that spoke to people going through the same hardships. People related and sympathized with having those same feelings and that is only one of the reasons millions of fans over the years connected with Bennington and the music of Linkin Park.
The band released their most recent album in May of 2017 called "One More Light," which had emotionally painful lyrics and track titles. Some songs on the album include "Nobody Can Save Me," "Invisible" and "Good Goodbye." Personally, these track titles seemed like a cry for help and an open book to Bennington's struggles.
Remembering Bennington will be easy because his impact on people around the world and the music industry will last forever. However, a world without him and his powerful vocals and soul will not be so easy. Many of us grew up listening to him sing on the radio or through CD players and many of us have continued to listen to his music and grow with him over the years. He was an unforgettable men with an inspiring purpose that will live on. Rest in peace Chester Bennington...you were truly a gift to this world.
