LFO founding member Brian ‘Brizz’ Gilliz dies aged 47 as bandmate pays tribute

'I am really struggling to process this tragic loss'

Brian is the third member of the group to die before before age 50.

Brian's former bandmate, Brad Fischetti, announced the news in an Instagram post on Thursday, and Variety later confirmed it.

His cause of death has not been revealed.

Brian was one of the founding members of LFO in 1995 with Fischetti and Rich Cronin, who passed away in 2010, age 36, from leukemia.

He left the group in 1999 and was replaced by Devin Lima. He passed away in 2018, age 41, after battling cancer.

The US pop and hip hop group had a hit in, Summer Girls, which reached number three on the US Billboard 100 when it was released in 1999.

Fischetti wrote on Instagram: "Every story is made up of chapters. Some develop naturally. Some you have to cut up in your mind. The first two chapters of the LFO story lost a main character yesterday. Brian 'Brizz' Gillis passed away. "I don't have details and it wouldn't be my place to share them if I did. I am really struggling to process this tragic loss.

"I've said it before and I will continue to say it; the LFO Story is a tragedy."

He added: "If you know what I've been doing, you know I’m trying to bring light into the darkness. Trying find redemption in pain and suffering. Trying to honour the legacy. "Today I honour my former bandmate and friend, Brizz. If you watched the LFO Story live stream or have seen the band and me play it live, you know what Brian meant to LFO." He also highlighted the difficulties within the band, that were thought to contribute to Brian's decision to leave in 1999."

Fischetti explained: "My relationship with Brian was complex. It contained moments of great tribulation but also of great joy. "I learned a lot from him about the business of music and how to put together and rock a show. "And it’s those positive aspects of our relationship that I will lean on now and forever."

His post ended by saying: "I’ve prayed for Brian every day for many years. And I will continue to pray for him, for his beloved father, for his friends, his family, and those who loved him. "Special prayers for Pistol Pete and Terry Edwards; two men who hold a special place in my heart and undoubtedly held a special place in Brian’s heart.

"I know that soon or maybe already, Brizz will be greeted by Rich and Devin. And I hope that together, they will make some sweet sounds. I would really like that. "Rest east bro. Rest easy."

Singer Jacob Underwood wrote in the comments: "Heartbreaking…" Sugar Ray frontman Mark McGrath added: "Truly sorry for your loss my brother…"

DJ Nasty shared: "Unbelievable! life is way too short. Brizz was so cool, straight up! Prays going out to his friends and family

"Your doing a excellent job keeping The LFO Legacy Alive. Keep Going!"

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