30 Seconds To Mars frontman Jared Leto has paid tribute to late rockers Chester Bennington (of Linkin Park) and Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden, Audioslave & Temple Of The Dog) at the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) in California.
In an emotional speech during today’s ceremony, Leto reflected on how both musicians touched his life, saying, “MTV asked me to come here to say a few words about Chester and the late, great, Chris Cornell — two artists I had the absolute pleasure of touring with.
“They were close friends with one another, Chester even singing the cover of the classic ‘Hallelujah’ at Chris’ funeral,” he continued.
“Chester said of Chris, ‘Your voice was joy and pain and anger and forgiveness, love and heartache, all wrapped up into one.’ Just weeks later, Chester himself was gone.
“Chester was my friend as he was to so many. And witnessing his life taught me important things. Especially about working relentlessly, pursuing dreams and being kind and caring while doing it.
“When I think about him, Chester, I see his face, which was always smiling. I think about his heart which he wore on his sleeve. I think how kindly he treated me, my brother, Tomo, our band. I think about his wife and his six, six incredible children. I think about his family. I think about his band, who were really his brothers, and I remember his voice. At once ferocious and delicate, that voice will live forever.
“If there is anyone out there who is watching this tonight, who feels like there is no hope, hear me now. You are not alone. There is always a way forward, reach out, share your thoughts, do not give up, and I promise you this: the absolute biggest breakthroughs in life lie just beyond the darkest days.”
Since Leto’s speech, Linkin Park’s Dave ‘Phoenix’ Farrell has taken to Twitter to say, “Thanks Jared Leto for your beautiful words about Chester… your heart really shines through hearing you speak about Chester.”
Watch Leto’s speech, below.
If you or anyone you know needs help or information regarding mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
Thanks @JaredLeto for your beautiful words about @ChesterBe… your heart really shines through hearing you speak about Chester ??
— Dave Phoenix Farrell (@phoenixlp) August 28, 2017
