Limp Bizkit returned to the stage in Mexico City on Saturday for their first performance since the death of bassist Sam Rivers.
The nu-metal veterans screened an emotional tribute to their late bandmate during the tour opener, as reported by Rolling Stone.
The poignant video featured footage of Rivers onstage and backstage with his bandmates. The tribute concluded with the messages, “Sam Rivers, our brother forever,” and “Sam Rivers, we love you forever,” while the band and crowd watched together in remembrance.
Rivers passed away on 18 October, with no cause of death yet disclosed.
The band had previously announced their intention to continue the scheduled tour dates following his death, honouring their commitments while processing the loss of their longtime friend and colleague.
Bassist Richie ‘Kid Not’ Buxton, who also performs with tour opening act Ecca Vandal, stepped in to fill Rivers’ position in Mexico City.
Frontman Fred Durst addressed the crowd: “Now we’re gonna do this s**t Limp Bizkit style. Tonight, this one’s for Sam Rivers.”
Drummer John Otto shared a personal tribute on social media prior to the show.
“Today is going to be tough,” he wrote. “A first I never wanted to experience. Especially not now,” Otto continued, describing Rivers as “the godfather to my girls, my best friend – my brother”.
“We’re going to honour the life you lived and the love you spread with every show we play. You’ll always be with us.”
