Birthday tribute: How Chester Bennington left an entire generation feeling 'numb'

The Linkin Park frontman would have turned 42 today

In the summer of 2017, all hell broke lose when news of Linkin Park's lead singer Chester Bennington passed away. An entire generation that grew up listening to his songs was shaken to say the least. The heartbreaking announcement hit everyone hard. It was personal, just like Bennington's songs.

PHOTO: TEAM ROCK

What made it even worse was that Bennington died by committing suicide in July 2017, leaving his family, friends and fans, devastated, reported The Indian Express. 

The singer's contribution to music is immense. The 41-year-old had established himself as the voice of the youth as he made his way into their hearts with his soulful songs. Linkin Park's debut album Hybrid Theory released in 2000 and became one of the best-selling albums of all time.


Papercut from Hybrid Theory was one of Bennington's favourite songs. The lyrics spoke of personal battles combined with upbeat music made for an interesting clash. In an interview, the singer once revealed, "Papercut captures what our band is all about."


Crawling and In The End were also quick to become fan favourites. In fact, the latter became a worldwide anthem, spelling futility and fighting inner demons. Crawling, on the other hand, talked about insecurities, hurt and discomfort. In this way, Linkin Park connected with others who were going through the same struggles as the band members themselves.


Meteora, the band's second album, also created quite the buzz. Chester made his voice known with songs such as Somewhere I Belong, Breaking The Habit and the unforgettable Numb. While these continued speaking of self-doubt, Bennington's voice reached new heights. Unruffled, raspy, elastic - his vocals were capable of doing it all. In Bleed It Out, he croaked, graveled and broke you down but then he calmed his listeners in the acoustic version of Crawling.


One More Light, Linkin Park's last album before Bennington's death explored the electronic pop genre. The music was "happy," if not the words. Whimsical in its tone, the lyrics of Talking To Myself express that the song is not what you thought it would be.


The title track One More Light hinted at hope. "Who cares if one more light goes out? Well, I do," crooned Bennington. The song gave listeners a sweet surprise as it was different to signature Linkin Park's signature style.


Bennington would have turned 42 today - March 20, 2018. He had a difficult childhood and was reportedly sexually assaulted when he was seven. After keeping mum about the incident, he started substance abuse.

After his parents' divorce, the late singer was left abandoned. Even though his father was given custody, Bennington was still unable to spend time with him owing to his extensive working hours.

PHOTO: OK MAGAZINE DENMARK

Reminiscing the memories, it's safe to say that Linkin Park's songs, especially Bennington's voice, were personal. The generation that grew up listening to him around the world will always be indebted to him for this priceless gift.

This article originally appeared in Indian Express.

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