Brit Turner Death Reason and Obituary: How Did Blackberry Smoke Drummer Die? Cause Revealed
The music world is mourning the loss of Brit Turner, the drummer and founding member of the Southern rock band Blackberry Smoke. He passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the age of 57, after battling a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. His death was confirmed by the band on social media, who paid tribute to their “brother” and “true north”.
Who was Brit Turner?
Brit Turner was born in Mount Clemens, Michigan, and grew up in Smyrna, Georgia. He was exposed to music from a young age, as his father played in a big band and his grandmother played piano. He received his first snare drum for Christmas before sixth grade and soon developed a passion for hard rock and heavy metal bands like AC/DC, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden.
In 1988, he formed the thrash-metal band Nihilist with his brother Richard Turner on bass. The brothers eventually embraced their Southern roots and founded Blackberry Smoke in 2000, along with singer-guitarist Charlie Starr and guitarist Paul Jackson. Keyboardist Brandon Still joined the group shortly after.
Turner was the driving force behind Blackberry Smoke’s sound and energy, delivering powerful and thunderous drumming that blended rock, country, blues, and soul. He was also the heart and soul of the band, known for his long beard, wild hair, boisterous laugh, and caring personality.
Brit Turner Obituary
| Name | Brit Turner |
|---|---|
| Birth date | 1966 |
| Birthplace | Mount Clemens, Michigan |
| Death date | March 3, 2024 |
| Death place | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Death cause | Glioblastoma |
| Occupation | Drummer |
| Years active | 1988-2024 |
| Associated acts | Blackberry Smoke, Nihilist |
| Spouse | Shannon Sorrells Turner |
| Children | Two |
What was his cause of death?
Turner was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, in November 2022, after undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumor. Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive form of cancer that starts in the brain or spinal cord. It grows quickly and can destroy healthy tissue, causing headaches, seizures, vision problems, and personality changes.
Turner continued to tour with the band after his brain surgery, but had to skip some performances due to health issues. In December 2023, the band announced that Turner would be taking a break from shows to undergo further treatment for his condition. Sadly, he succumbed to the disease on Sunday, March 3, 2024, leaving behind his wife, two children, and countless fans and friends.
Read Also: Meet Brit Turner’s Family, Wife & Kids
How did the music community react?
The news of Turner’s death sent shockwaves across the music community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow musicians. Many praised Turner’s talent, legacy, and impact on the Southern rock scene, as well as his kindness, generosity, and humor.
Some of the artists who expressed their sorrow and admiration for Turner include Zac Brown Band, Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton, Sheryl Crow, Gov’t Mule, The Allman Betts Band, The Cadillac Three, Whiskey Myers, and The Steel Woods.
The band’s official statement read: “It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life. Brit battled glioblastoma since his diagnosis and fought every day. We ask for prayers for his family and band brothers. Thanks to everyone who supported him through this fight.”
What is his legacy?
Turner leaves behind a rich and remarkable legacy in the music industry, as one of the founding members and drummers of Blackberry Smoke, one of the most successful and influential Southern rock bands of the 21st century. The band has released seven studio albums, four live albums, and two EPs, selling over a million albums worldwide and topping the Billboard Country, Rock, and Americana charts.
The band has also collaborated with legends like George Jones, Gregg Allman, Bob Weir, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and opened for acts like ZZ Top, Tom Petty, and Guns N’ Roses. They have also performed at festivals like Bonnaroo, Download, and CMA Fest, and received numerous awards and nominations, including a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album in 2019.
Turner was not only a phenomenal drummer, but also a beloved friend, brother, husband, and father. He touched the lives of many people with his music, his spirit, and his heart. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten by his family, his bandmates, and his fans.
