• Sam Rivers, founding bassist of Limp Bizkit, dies at 48.
• The band described Rivers as “pure magic” and “the soul in the sound.”
• No cause of death has been disclosed.
• Rivers had previously struggled with liver disease and underwent a transplant.
• Fred Durst shared heartfelt memories and tributes to Rivers online.

Sam Rivers, the founding bassist of the iconic band Limp Bizkit, has died at the age of 48. The band announced his passing on social media, noting, "Today we lost our brother" and describing Rivers as "pure magic" and "the pulse beneath every song" according to Los Angeles Times, BBC, CBS News, and NPR.

The band, formed in 1994, has credited Rivers with bringing a unique light and rhythm that were integral to their sound. They expressed shock and sorrow, with DJ Lethal emphasizing the impact Rivers had through his music and charity work, while also requesting privacy for Rivers' family during this time of mourning according to Los Angeles Times and BBC.

Although no details surrounding the cause of death have been disclosed, Rivers had previously battled liver disease, leading to his departure from the band in 2015 and later receiving a successful liver transplant in 2018. He rejoined Limp Bizkit thereafter, enhancing their legacy in the music industry according to CBS News and NPR.

Rivers' bandmate Fred Durst fondly reminisced about their initial meeting and expressed his deep loss in a social media video, stating, "I've gone through gallons and gallons of tears since yesterday," as he reflected on the extraordinary talent and legacy of Rivers. The band is set to begin a tour in November, continuing to honor the memories and music they created together according to Los Angeles Times, BBC, and NPR.