Recording Academy Releases Statement on Passing of Linkin Park's Chester Bennington

As reported in the The New York Times yesterday, Chester Bennington, the lead singer for the platinum-selling band Linkin Park, was found dead in his home near Los Angeles He was 41. The Los Angeles County coroner's office revealed that they were investigating his death as a possible suicide after law enforcement authorities responded to a call at approximately 9 a.m.

Yesterday, the Recording Academy released the following statement on his passing:

Our GRAMMY® family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of two-time GRAMMY winner Chester Bennington. As the cutting-edge lead vocalist of Linkin Park, Chester's powerful range, paired with his impressive songwriting skills, made him a bona fide hard rock hero. His riveting stage presence made every live performance magnetic, earning him millions of fans around the globe.

Having put as much passion into charitable causes as he did his musical craft, we were honored to pay tribute to him at our 2013 MusiCares MAP Fund® benefit concert, where he lent his time and talents to help raise money to assist members of the music community with the addiction treatment process. We have lost a truly dynamic member of the music community and our sincerest condolences go out to Chester's family, friends, collaborators, and all who have been impacted by his work.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
Recording Academy