The world has woken up to the shocking news of the passing of one of the greatest drummers of the modern day, Aaron Spears.
The sad news has been announced by Aaron’s widow, Jessica, on his social media. The statement reads:
“It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears. Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer, admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music, but he was also a devoted father to our precious son, August. His love, guidance and warmth were the pillars of our family, and his absence leaves a void that worlds cannot describe. We were blessed to have him in our life, and his legacy will live on through the beautiful rhythms he created and the love he shared with us. We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world. At this time we ask for privacy as we work our way through this. With love, Jessica and August.”
As yet, the cause of death has not been revealed.
Tributes from within the drumming community have already started pouring in:
Ludwig Drums: “We are profoundly saddened to announce the untimely loss of our dear friend and cherished colleague, Aaron Spears. A luminous soul in the drumming community, Aaron was so much more than a musician; he was an inspiration, a mentor, and a truly remarkable human being. Born into a musical family in Washington DC, Aaron’s relationship with drumming was deeply spiritual, nurtured by his strong roots in the Church. This faith didn’t just shape him as an artist; it guided him as a person. He radiated values of kindness, community, and encouragement, touching the lives of everyone who crossed his path. Beyond his talent behind the drum kit, Aaron was an extraordinary mentor and educator. He found immense joy in sharing his passion and wisdom through workshops, clinics, and masterclasses, impacting countless aspiring drummers around the globe. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing Aaron personally were touched by his infectious spirit and unwavering faith. His ability to uplift and inspire was unparalleled, and it’s this legacy—his human legacy—that we will carry forward. As we mourn this immeasurable loss, our thoughts and prayers are with Aaron’s family and all those whose lives he enriched. May he rest in peace, his soulful rhythms forever resonating in our hearts.”
Sonor: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our friend and former artist family member Aaron Spears. Aaron was not only an incredible drummer, musician and educator, he was a remarkable person with the biggest heart in the world. He always put others in first place, he was humble and grateful and was always striving to give something back to his community, his kindness was unparalleled.
Our thoughts are with Aaron`s family and friends, we will keep him and his legacy in our hearts, may he rest in peace.”
DW: “We are still trying to process the sudden loss of our beautiful friend, Aaron Spears. We know it is a loss felt by the whole drumming world and we share that with you. As a man, he was a true inspiration. He was an amazing father and husband. He had a heart and soul full of passion for life. There was always a huge smile on his face. He gave his time so generously to everyone. His positivity was real and infectious. As a player, his talent, power and technique were unmatched. He made it look so easy too. And while seeing someone with so much natural ability can sometimes make people feel like giving up, watching Aaron play had the opposite effect. He made you feel like anything was possible and he honestly believed that everyone has a voice worth being heard. Aaron drew everyone in because he genuinely loved community. Reaching out to each other in times like this helps us remember that we are together and we can help each other heal. We think Aaron would have liked that.“
Kirsten Matt, Zildjian Artist Relations: “Aaron lit up more rooms than we could count. He could change the energy of a room just by walking in and fill the darkest room with light. He could change the energy of a stage the same way…from that first hit, you always knew you were witness to something special. A talent that was unrivaled. And we could talk about his talent for days and days and days…but Aaron was so much more than his musical talent. He simply was an amazing human being – just as he was always working on being better at his craft, he was always trying to be the best version of himself that he could be. And he made you want to do the same.
Aaron was one of those people who could bring everyone to the table. Always a voice of reason, he helped calm the storms. This loss is immeasurable for us as friends and colleagues and unimaginable for his family. Our hearts are forever with his wife Jessica and his son Gus, who were everything to him. Aaron’s light can never be extinguished, and his smile will always be that beacon of joy. He will live in our hearts and minds forever.”
DrumChannel: “RIP, Aaron. You’ve inspired so many musicians to be the best versions of themselves, not only behind their instrument, but with the people around them as well. We’ve always had such an incredible time seeing you radiate your positive energy behind the kit. You will be missed.”
Drumeo: “We say goodbye to a true drumming legend, Aaron Spears. Your talent, smile, and personality will be dearly missed, but your legacy lives on. Condolences to the entire Spears family“.
Jared Falk: “RIP Aaron Spears. The community lost one of the greats. I met Aaron a few times throughout the years, last time being in February 2022 during his Drumeo session. He was always by so kind and soft spoken, never having a bad word to say about anyone or anything. Seeing his legendary “Caught Up” performance changed the game for me. It revealed more possibilities on the drums. He inspired a generation of gospel drummers, giving them the power of chops and amazing groove. He was always conscious about teaching context to ensure drummers didn’t use chops irresponsibly. Thank you for your contribution to our community, Aaron. Your passion and work will be celebrated, and we will all miss your big smile and amazing personality. Condolences to the entire Spears family.”
Gergo Borlai: “I’m in shock. Safe travels my friend.”
Tommy Igoe: “Just awful news. We lost a great one today. RIP, Aaron Spears.”
Igor Falecki: “I don’t believe it happened. Inspiration. Drumming legend. Loving person. I’ll miss you Aaron. Forever your bro….“
