Renowned country rock band Blackberry Smoke’s drummer, Brit Turner, passed away on March 4, 2024, after a long battle with brain cancer. The drummer, who was born in Mount Clemons, Michigan, was a key member of the band he co-founded in 2000 alongside Charlie Starr, Richard Turner, Paul Jackson, and Brandon Still.
Throughout the years, Blackberry Smoke has released a total of eight studio albums and two live albums, with Brit Turner contributing his musical talent and passion to the band’s success. In addition to his music career, Brit Turner was also the CEO of his company Merch Mountain, which he established in January 2012.
Brit Turner’s battle with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, was made public in 2022, and tragically, he succumbed to the illness on March 3, 2024. The band took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news, describing Brit as a caring, empathetic, and endearing individual who left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Brit Turner was married to Shannon Sorrells Turner, and the couple recently celebrated their 20th anniversary in February 2024. They have a daughter named Lana Jean Turner, who is an actress recognized for her roles in popular shows like Sweet Magnolias and Stranger Things. Inspired by Lana’s battle with stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2009, Brit Turner launched the Lana Turner Foundation in 2020 to provide support for children undergoing pediatric cancer treatment across the United States.
Brit Turner’s legacy as a talented musician, devoted husband, and loving father lives on through his family, his bandmates, and the countless lives he touched throughout his life. His contributions to Blackberry Smoke and the music industry as a whole will be remembered and cherished by fans and loved ones alike.
