Aaron Spears, the Grammy nominated drummer and music producer who worked with Ariana Grande, Usher, Lady Gaga and Britney Spears, among many others, has died. He was 47.
Aaron’s spouse, Jessica, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram this Monday. In her post, she expressed, “Aaron was not only a highly accomplished drummer, celebrated by many for his unmatched talent and unwavering passion for music, but he was also a dedicated father to our beloved son, August. His affection, wisdom, and kindness formed the strong foundation of our family, and his absence creates a void that words cannot capture.”
She went on to say, “We were fortunate to have him as a part of our lives, and his legacy will endure through the beautiful rhythms he crafted and the love he bestowed upon us.”
Spears earned a Grammy nomination for his work on Usher’s 2004 album “Confessions.” The following year, the drummer performed with James Brown at the Grammy Awards ceremony.
Spears’ touring and recording credits include Lil Wayne, Carrie Underwood, Miley Cyrus, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Mary Mary, The Backstreet Boys, Chaka Khan, Jordin Sparks, Adam Lambert and, most recently, Ariana Grande. the Grammy nominated
“I can’t wrap my head around this,” said Grande in an Instagram Story post. “We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being. Always the kindest, always smiling. I am so honored and thankful that our paths crossed and to have spent so much very special time together.”
On the television side, Spears was the music coordinator and drummer for Season 3 of “The Masked Singer.” He also served as the house drummer on the pilot episode of NBC’s “Songland” in 2019.