Korn guitarist Brian ‘Head’ Welch posted a new video following the backlash to his comments yesterday calling Linkin Park and Stone Temple Pilots singer Chester Bennington’s suicide a ‘cowardly act.’
“I didn’t mean to sound insensitive about Chester. Just dealing with a range of emotions today. Love you Chester. I’m pissed that you did this, but I know this could have been me back in the day after getting wasted one night.”
“Jonathan [Davis] dedicated [last night’s show] to Chester, Ray [Luzier] was in tears, it was crazy.
“I got emotional about it, it hits so close to home… so close to home…
“We are a small community in the rock world – it’s just so crazy. I got mad and sad and grieving. I know everybody is grieving, but I just don’t want it to happen anymore.
“Just don’t get the rope and put it around your neck, no more; don’t get the pills, don’t get a gun and shoot yourself, just don’t do it anymore.
“We’re at that point where it’s just too much. Chris Cornell’s death hit me – I didn’t ever hang out with him, but it was really brutal.
“And then as time’s passed, we’re getting over that and then we got here and my friend did what Chris did. It just shocked me.
“I love Chester, I love the guys in Linkin Park, we’ve got history with them. Just genuine nice guys, Chester’s such a nice guy, and I’m hurt for his kids.
“Just pissed off and sad about Chris’ kids and Chester’s kids and everybody’s kids out there who lost someone to a bad choice.
“I’ve been through it and thank god I didn’t do it. Do everything you gotta do to get past those feelings. Don’t be alone.”
Welch initially stated:
Honestly, Chester’s an old friend who we’ve hung with many times, and I have friends who are extremely close to him, but this is truly pissing me off!
“How can these guys send this message to their kids and fans?! I’m sick of this suicide shit!
“I’ve battled depression/mental illness, and I’m trying to be sempethetic, but it’s hard when you’re pissed! Enough is enough!
“Giving up on your kids, fans, and life is the cowardly way out!!!”
