Sam Rivers, the bassist and founding member of the iconic nu-metal band Limp Bizkit, has died at the age of 48. The band announced his death on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in an emotional tribute posted to their Instagram account. The cause of death has not been revealed.

"Today we lost our brother. Our bandmate. Our heartbeat," the band wrote in their Instagram post. "Sam Rivers wasn't just our bass player — he was pure magic. The pulse beneath every song, the calm in the chaos, the soul in the sound." The band's statement highlighted Rivers' unique musical talent and his importance to Limp Bizkit's signature sound.

Rivers was a founding member of Limp Bizkit, forming the band in 1994 with frontman Fred Durst, drummer John Otto, and guitarist Wes Borland. DJ Lethal later joined the group. Rivers and Durst initially played together in a band called Malachi Sage before establishing Limp Bizkit. The band achieved mainstream success in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their blend of nu-metal and rap rock. Their albums Significant Other and Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water were particularly successful. Rivers's basslines were a crucial element of the band's sound, earning him the Gibson Award for Best Bass Player in 2000.

Limp Bizkit's Instagram tribute reflected on the impact Rivers had on the band and their experiences together. "From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced. His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous," the band stated. "We shared so many moments — wild ones, quiet ones, beautiful ones — and every one of them meant more because Sam was there." The band concluded their message with "We love you, Sam. We'll carry you with us, always. Rest easy, brother. Your music never ends."

DJ Lethal, Limp Bizkit's DJ and producer, also commented on the statement, saying, "Give Sam his flowers and play Sam Rivers basslines all day,". He added, "We are in shock. Rest in power my brother! You will live on through your music and the lives you helped save with your music, charity work and friendships. We are heartbroken."

Rivers had previously left Limp Bizkit in 2015, later revealing in 2020 that his departure was due to liver disease resulting from excessive drinking, which required a transplant. He eventually rejoined the band.

Sam Rivers's contribution to Limp Bizkit and the nu-metal genre is undeniable. His distinctive basslines and musical talent helped shape the band's identity and contributed to their success. His death marks a significant loss for the band and the music community.