Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington died a year ago today, an event that shocked music fans around the world.
Bennington took his own life at his home in California and the music world was united in paying tribute to one of the most influential musicians of the last decade or so, but some of his closest friends chose not to go public with their feelings.
One such person was bandmate Dave 'Phoenix' Farrell, Linkin Park's bass guitarist, who gave a public statement at the time but chose not to speak more because of his grief.
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Now, a year on, he has released a heartfelt open letter to Bennington that lays bare the extent of his sorrow at the loss of his friend.
Farrell wrote: "In the past year, there hasn't been a day that has gone by that I haven't thought of you. I miss you, and it still hurts to not have you here.
"I chose not to speak at your memorial because I couldn't formulate the words to adequately express how I felt... I chose not to speak at the Celebration of Life Concert honoring you because I knew I'd struggle to even be able to speak at all.
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"And today, a year after your passing, I still struggle to try and eloquently express what you mean to your family, your friends, your fans... and to me."
The Celebration of Life Concert was an event held in Bennington's memory at the Hollywood Bown in October 2017, in which Linkin Park were joined by friends and members of bands such Blink 182, System of a Down, Avenged Sevenfold and Sum 41 to celebrate his life and their music.
"There is so much that I feel, and that I could say, and that I would want to say, and that I don't know how to say," continued Farrell.
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"But one thing I know for certain is that you are loved, and you are missed. Be Well My Friend, Dave."
In a statement at the time of Bennington's death, Farrell wrote: "It goes without saying, this last week has been extremely difficult."
"The outpouring of love and kindness I've received from friends and fans from all over the world has been incredible. I wish I could personally thank every one of you for your love and support.
"A huge part of Chester's legacy will be the memories we hold of him in our hearts. He was an enthusiastic, playful father. An honest, and passionate musician, and a loyal friend.
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"I've been touched to see memorials that have been held worldwide. If you have pictures from any memorials or events you've attended in memory of Chester, please send your favorites, I'd love to repost them."
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