Bob Bryar, Former Drummer of My Chemical Romance, Dead at 44
The artist played alongside the rock group in The Black Parade and Danger Days after becoming a member in 2004.
Bob Bryar, who played drums for My Chemical Romance between 2004 and 2010, has passed away at the age of 44, as confirmed by Rolling Stone.
A representative for the band shares with Rolling Stone, "They appreciate your patience and understanding as they come to terms with the news of Bob's death."
Information about his passing hasn’t been fully disclosed, but sources from law enforcement informed TMZ that the musician was discovered at his residence in Tennessee, with no indication of any criminal involvement. The medical examiner is looking into what led to Bryar’s death.
Born in Chicago in 1979, Bryar picked up the drums early on and later earned a degree in sound engineering from the University of Florida. He then ventured into a career as a touring sound engineer, collaborating with bands like Thrice and the Used. It was during a tour with the Used in 2004 that he crossed paths with My Chemical Romance.
Later that year, My Chemical Romance brought in a new drummer, replacing Matt Pelissier soon after they launched their second album, Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge. The new drummer contributed to three of the band's following albums, including the iconic 2006 release, The Black Parade, and their 2010 project, Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys.
“This was the biggest project I’ve ever worked on, and I was pretty anxious,” Bryar shared in an interview with Alternative Press, reflecting on the recording of The Black Parade. “Along with my nerves, we all had to figure out our writing chemistry together. I made sure to express my thoughts on my drum parts, but I also stepped back to let the others contribute, as they were doing an amazing job and didn’t need constant input. I remember one night when it was really late, and it was just me, G, and the engineer in the studio. I kept hearing a vocal harmony in my head. It was the first time I felt confident enough to suggest we try something different. That idea ended up making it onto the record, which was a really satisfying moment for me.”
He mentioned, “While we were making the album, my excitement grew more and more. It was shaping up to be a truly engaging and well-rounded audio experience… I really believe that every aspect of the album, including the artwork, is exceptional. I hope these songs endure for many years to come.”
Bryar left My Chemical Romance, which ultimately broke up in 2013 after releasing Danger Days. However, he was still involved with the band’s compilation of singles called Conventional Weapons. Frank Iero, a member of the band, stated that Bryar's departure was a difficult choice for everyone and was carefully considered. He expressed, “We wish him success in whatever he pursues next, and we hope you will do the same."
From 2011 to 2013, My Chemical Romance brought in Jarrod Alexander to fill in for Bryar, who later rejoined the band for their 2022 reunion tour. After departing from the group, Bryar stayed active in the music scene, working with different bands behind the scenes, and got involved with dog rescue organizations. In 2014, he decided to leave the music world altogether to start a new career in real estate.
In 2021, Bryar put up for auction the drum kit he played during the band's performance at the 2005 MTV VMAs to help fundraise for the Williamson County Animal Control and Adoption Center in Tennessee. He described the kit as his favorite among all he has owned, noting, “If you take a close look, you can still see some confetti from the tour that made its way into the bass drum hole. I’ll leave that there for you." The following year, Bryar shared plans to sell his original Black Parade uniform to support abandoned and shelter animals in Florida and South Carolina impacted by Hurricane Ian.
