Limp Bizkit guitarist Wes Borland has opened up about the profound impact of losing founding bassist Sam Rivers, describing the band as forever changed following his death in October 2025.
Rivers, a key member of the nu-metal pioneers since their formation in the mid-1990s, passed away at the age of 48. The band shared the heartbreaking news at the time, calling him “pure magic” and the “heartbeat” of the group. Now, nearly nine months later, Borland has given a raw and emotional update on how the loss continues to affect the remaining members.
In an interview with Consequence, Borland struggled to hold back tears while reflecting on Rivers’ irreplaceable role. “I’m gonna try not to cry. It’s just like we lost a piece of our DNA,” he said. “It’s too hard to talk about right now in depth.”
He emphasized that Rivers “can’t ever be replaced,” noting the band’s deep gratitude for current touring bassist Richie Buxton, who has stepped in admirably. “He’s such a great player, and he’s just a wonderful guy, and we’re gonna hold onto him for as long as we can,” Borland added. Buxton’s other project with his wife Ecca Vandal is gaining momentum, but Limp Bizkit remains committed to keeping him on board while navigating their grief.
Borland spoke on behalf of frontman Fred Durst, drummer John Otto, and DJ Lethal, explaining that the initial shock has now given way to deeper mourning. “Sam is not a replaceable person. He was the heartbeat,” he shared, highlighting the emotional weight still felt by the entire group.
Despite the loss, Limp Bizkit continues to push forward on the road. The band is currently tearing through the European festival circuit, with a major stop at Hellfest in France, before heading back to the US for appearances at Summer of ’99 and Beyond, Inkcarceration, Louder Than Life, and Aftershock.
Rivers’ bass lines were instrumental in shaping Limp Bizkit’s explosive sound on landmark albums like Significant Other and Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water, helping the Florida outfit sell millions of records and define the late ’90s/early 2000s nu-metal era alongside acts like Korn and Linkin Park.
