Brian 'Brizz' Gilliz of LFO fame has died aged 47, it has been confirmed.
His cause of death is yet to be revealed but he becomes the third member of the group to die at a young age.
Brian was one of the founding members of LFO with Brad Fischetti and Rich Cronin, who passed away in 2010 at just 36 from leukemia. The band were an American pop and hiphop band who's hit song Summer Girls reached number three on the U.S. Billboard 100 when it was released in 1999.
Gillis was a founding member of the band when it first began in 1995 until he left in 1999.
He was replaced by Devin Lima, who passed away in 2018 at just 41 after a battle with stage 4 adrenal cancer and was the second member of the band to die before 50.
Discussing the death of his bandmate Brian, longterm pal Brad Fischetti wrote on Instagram: "Every story is made up of chapters. Some develop naturally. Some you have to cut up in your mind. The first two chapters of the LFO story lost a main character yesterday. Brian 'Brizz' Gillis passed away.
"I don't have details and it wouldn't be my place to share them if I did. I am really struggling to process this tragic loss.
"I've said it before and I will continue to say it; the LFO Story is a tragedy."
He added: "If you know what I've been doing, you know I’m trying to bring light into the darkness. Trying find redemption in pain and suffering. Trying to honor the legacy.
"Today I honor my former bandmate and friend, Brizz. If you watched the LFO Story live stream or have seen the band and me play it live, you know what Brian meant to LFO."
He also highlighted the difficulties within the band, that were thought to contribute to Brian's decision to leave in 1999. Brad explained: "My relationship with Brian was complex. It contained moments of great tribulation but also of great joy.
"I learned a lot from him about the business of music and how to put together and rock a show.
"And it’s those positive aspects of our relationship that I will lean on now and forever."
He concluded: "I’ve prayed for Brian every day for many years. And I will continue to pray for him, for his beloved father, for his friends, his family, and those who loved him.
"Special prayers for Pistol Pete and Terry Edwards; two men who hold a special place in my heart and undoubtedly held a special place in Brian’s heart.
"I know that soon or maybe already, Brizz will be greeted by Rich and Devin. And I hope that together, they will make some sweet sounds. I would really like that.
"Rest east bro. Rest easy."
Friends of Brad and fans of the band have rushed into the comments on Brad's post to share their condolences. Singer Jacob Underwood wrote: "Heartbreaking…"
Sugar Ray frontman Mark McGrath added: "Truly sorry for your loss my brother…"
DJ Nasty shared: "Unbelievable! life is way too short. Brizz was so cool, straight up! Prays going out to his friends and family
"Your doing a excellent job keeping The LFO Legacy Alive. Keep Going!"
Fans of the 90s band shared their condolences and sadness at Brian's death, as one commented: "RIP. Praying for his family. Thinking of you, Brad. You’ve endured so much. You are inspiring to many of us."
Another added: "Omg your the only one standing left in the group so sorry for your losses stay strong."
