Brit Turner, drummer of Blackberry Smoke dies after brain cancer battle at 57.

Turner had battled an aggressive, rare, and fast-growing form of brain cancer known as Glioblastoma since 2022. He passed away Sunday, March 3rd, 2024 at age 57.

From the band's Facebook page:

"It is with the deepest sorrow that we inform everyone that our brother Brit Turner has moved on from this life. If you had the privilege of knowing Brit on any level, you know he was the most caring, empathetic, driven and endearing person one could ever hope to meet. Brit was Blackberry Smoke’s True North, the compass that instituted the ideology that will continue to guide this band. Brit has battled glioblastoma since his diagnosis in the fall of 2022 and fought every day. We ask for prayers for his family and band brothers. More information on arrangements will be forthcoming. Thank you to everyone who has supported and been there for Brit and his family through this fight."

- Blackberry Smoke

Brit's journey had been one of incredible resilience and determination. On December 16th, 2022, during a performance at The Vic Theatre in Chicago, Brit experienced a health episode that prompted the show to halt abruptly. Despite this setback, Brit continued to show his strength and dedication to his craft.

In August of 2023, he faced another health scare when he suffered a heart attack at his home in Atlanta. Through swift medical intervention, Brit received treatment and made a remarkable recovery, returning to the stage after a brief hiatus.

Tragically, on November 3rd, 2023, Brit was admitted to the hospital once more after experiencing complications related to his previous heart condition. Further tests revealed a tumor in his brain, leading to a diagnosis of glioblastoma. Brit underwent surgery and began his courageous battle against this aggressive form of cancer.

Despite the challenges he faced, Brit demonstrated incredible resilience. Less than a week after his surgery, he was discharged from the hospital and resumed his passion for music. His determination to return to the stage was unwavering, as evidenced by his performance at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta on November 25th.

Throughout his treatment, Brit remained committed to his role in Blackberry Smoke. Despite the ongoing challenges, he continued to be an integral part of the band, supported by a network of specialists and his bandmates.