Limp Bizkit recently honored their late co-founder and bassist, Sam Rivers, during their first concert since his passing in mid-October. The Fred Durst-fronted rap-rock band paid an emotional tribute to Rivers at Mexico City’s Estadio Fray Nano on Saturday, November 29. The tribute featured a brief video displaying an image of Rivers alongside heartfelt messages: “Sam Rivers, our brother forever” and “Sam Rivers, we love you forever.” As the video concluded, the members of Limp Bizkit embraced one another on stage, while the crowd resonated with chants of the late bassist’s name.

Earlier that day, drummer John Otto shared a poignant reflection on the loss of his close friend and bandmate in a heartfelt Instagram post. Otto expressed the difficulty of the day, stating it was a “first I never wanted to experience.” He reminisced about their shared history, noting, “Some of my earliest memories were made with you. We grew up together. Laughed together. Realized our dreams together. And traveled the world together.” Otto further emphasized Rivers’ enduring presence, calling him “The godfather to my girls, my best friend – my brother.” He pledged to honor Rivers’ life and love through every show the band plays, concluding his message with gratitude to their fans for their support and tributes to Sam.

Sam Rivers passed away on October 18 at the age of 48. While an official cause of death was not immediately revealed, the musician had been diagnosed with liver disease in 2011, a condition linked to years of heavy drinking. He underwent a liver transplant in 2017, following a temporary departure from Limp Bizkit in 2015. Rivers later rejoined the band in 2018. During the Mexico City show, bassist Richie Buxton, also known as Kid Not, performed with Limp Bizkit. Buxton also performs with Ecca Vandal, the group supporting Limp Bizkit on their upcoming South American tour dates.

Following Rivers’ death, Fred Durst shared his own emotional tribute, expressing the tragedy of his absence and admitting to shedding “gallons and gallons of tears.” Durst revered Rivers as a “legend” who truly “lived it.” The entire band, including guitarist Wes Borland, DJ Lethal, and John Otto, issued a joint statement honoring their beloved bandmate. They described Sam Rivers as “pure magic,” “the pulse beneath every song, the calm in the chaos, the soul in the sound.” The statement highlighted that from their first note together, Rivers brought an irreplaceable light and rhythm, praising his effortless talent, unforgettable presence, and enormous heart.