Linkin Park recently celebrated the release of their seventh studio album, One More Light. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart (as did six of their other albums). The group’s catalog even includes a mash up project with Jay Z. Their music defined a generation with hits like “Numb”, “In The End”, “Closer” and their latest gem, “Heavy”. However, the group as we know reached its completion today. Chester Bennington, lead singer, took his life at the age of 41 years old. 

Chester and his group hailed from California and instantly took the music industry by storm. Their debut studio album, Hybrid Theory, went on to sell an astonishing 10 million copies in the US alone. Linkin Park’s star status could not be dimmed. The group infectiously blended Rock and Rap.  They created sounds that were not previously heard before. Chester Bennington’s piercing vocals were the main attraction. His pain and angst reverberated in the atmosphere even after their songs were over. Linkin Park was an acquired taste for some. Their influence cannot be denied though. 

Chester Bennington struggle with himself was apparent in the group’s last recording together. “Heavy” has some dark, disturbing lyrics that sound like a cry for help in hindsight. “Holding on/So much more than I can carry/I keep dragging around what’s bringing me down”. Nevertheless, Chester Bennington’s (and Linkin Park’s) legacy will forever be the cool guy(s) of Rock/Rap who broke the mold and set trends for others to follow. 

If you or someone you know has contemplated suicide, call The National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.