Bob Bryar. (Photo by Richard Ecclestone/Redferns)
Bob Bryar, My Chemical Romance’s former drummer, has reportedly been found dead. He was 44.
According to TMZ, the musician was found at his home in Tennessee on Tuesday, November 26 by Animal Control after last being seen on Monday, November 4.
While the cause of death is unclear, the outlet reported that no foul play was suspected. Medical professionals are currently investigating the cause of death, according to TMZ.
Bryar joined My Chemical Romance to play drums in 2004, replacing original drummer Matt Pelissier. As My Chemical Romance’s longest-tenured drummer, he stayed with the band until 2010 and worked on their most popular release, the 2006 album The Black Parade.
In the years following his departure from MCR, Bryar worked on other music projects before reportedly transitioning into a real estate career.
Speaking to the Alternative Press in 2016, Bryar shared details from his early days being part of My Chemical Romance and knowing the band was “special” from the get-go.
My Chemical Romance. (Photo by Richard Ecclestone/Redferns)
“I left a very good touring gig where I was tour managing and doing sound. I left that job to join a band that was filthy, had sh–y gear, a smashed-up, smoking, death-trap van and was poor. They smelled bad, too. I was so happy to receive the offer,” he told the outlet. “Long before we recorded ‘Welcome To The Black Parade,’ I knew that [MCR] were special and I wanted in. I wanted to help evolve the band and be able to shred with them every night.”
Bryar also shared some of his most lasting memories as a drummer for the band.
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“There are a few shows and events that really stick out for me. The first one involves the entire Black Parade tour. I thought I was dreaming most of the time,” Bryar shared. “I really wish everyone could have a chance to sit at my drum kit, having the best time ever and thinking of how crazy this is during a show.”
He continued: “We spent a lot of money to put on that tour. We also put all of the money that we made right back into the production. We did that because we were more into the show, not the money. This also helped us keep ticket costs fairly low. I still wish I had a piece of that set to keep as a memory. It was the most fun period of my entire life.”