Brit Turner, the band’s founding drummer, died at the age of 57 on Sunday, March 3, following a battle with brain cancer.

The rock band broke the news on social media, writing, “It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life.”

They reflected on Turner’s unique traits, saying, “If you had the privilege of knowing Brit on any level, you know he was the most caring, empathetic, driven, and endearing person you could ever hope to meet.” Brit was Blackberry Smoke’s True North, the compass that established the philosophy that would continue to drive the band.”

Further remarking on the late drummer’s condition, they stated: “Brit has battled glioblastoma [an aggressive form of brain cancer] since his diagnosis in the fall of 2022 and fought every day.”

They extended gratitude to everyone who helped the departed drummer’s family during these difficult days.

Turner had previously been hospitalized in August 2022 due to a heart attack. He instantly recovered and returned to the stage.

The 57-year-old drummer was diagnosed with glioblastoma later that year. He underwent surgery to remove a tumor from his skull.

Because of his medical condition, Atalanta sticksman Kent Aberle filled in for him while he was gone.