Linkin Park – Screen Capture via YouTube
A little over two months ago, the world lost one of the greatest vocalists when Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington committed suicide. I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Linkin Park perform live in at the Gorge Amphitheater back in September 2014. Having been a fan of the band since Hybrid Theory – like many others – I was thrilled to know that the boys from Agoura Hills, California could put on a heck of a concert. And while the entirety of the band was fantastic, Chester Bennington stole the show.
The “One More Light” video is a tribute to the late singer’s life showing us glimpses into the band’s history. It is a touching and moving video that shows the grace and life of Bennington. It is emotional. I can only imagine what his friends and family are currently enduring, but if this video is any indication, they are remembering him fondly.
In heartbreaking fashion, Linkin Park founding member Mike Shinoda knows exactly what to say to his friend and to the fans. “’One More Light’ was written with the intention of sending love to those who lost someone. We now find ourselves on the receiving end,” Shinoda states. “In memorial events, art, videos, and images, fans all over the world have gravitated towards this song as their declaration of love and support for the band and the memory of our dear friend, Chester. We are so very grateful and can’t wait to see you again.”
Co-director of “One More Light” Joe Hahn communicated some equally touching words saying, “It has been incredibly emotional to work on this, and especially to watch it. I feel that by doing it, we not only faced some of our biggest fears, but it enabled us to use our talents to bring some light to people that need it. As we move forward to the Hollywood Bowl show and beyond, I think about the people that connect with the band, outside and inside our circle. This video is a gesture of good will to the people that want that connection.”
On October 27, 2017 at the Hollywood Bowl, Linkin Park and friends will be putting on a celebration of life concert in honor of their late bandmate, Chester Bennington. The concert will benefit Music For Relief, who are accepting donations via Linkin Park’s website. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster and their seventh studio album, One More Light, can be purchased on iTunes now.
