Brit Turner, drummer for the popular Southern rock band Blackberry Smoke, has died at age 57, the group announced on social media.
He had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, a cancer of the brain, two years ago, and underwent surgery for the aggressive condition in November 2022. Following that treatment, Turner continued to play with Blackberry Smoke on tour through December 2023.
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life,” the group said in its statement. “If you had the privilege of knowing Brit on any level, you know he was the most caring, empathetic, driven and endearing person one could ever hope to meet. Brit was Blackberry Smoke’s True North, the compass that instituted the ideology that will continue to guide this band. Brit has battled glioblastoma since his diagnosis in the fall of 2022 and fought every day. We ask for prayers for his family and band brothers. More information on arrangements will be forthcoming. Thank you to everyone who has supported and been there for Brit and his family through this fight.”
Reactions quickly came in from fellow musicians after word of the death got out Sunday.
“My longtime brother has moved on,” wrote Butch Walker. “I am heartbroken and have been crying all night but i know he’s finally at peace. Long live Brit Turner.”
Said Duane Betts, “I’m so sorry. Brit was an amazing human being and I feel so privileged I was able to get know him as well as I did. Sending love and prayers to the family. We love you always, Brit Turner.”
The group further suggested on social media that anyone interested in helping out Turner’s family visit this page for Families and Communities Together Relief (FACT), which offers aid to families whose principal bread-winner is struck by a serious illness.
The group’s latest album, “Be Right Here,” came out Feb. 16, and just debuted at No. 23 on the Billboard rock album schart and No. 26 on Billboard’s country albums chart. Blackberry Smoke has continued to tour into 2024 with a substitute drummer since the beginning of the year.
