Blackberry Smoke Frontman Reflects on Band's Journey and Loss

Celebrating Resilience and Music: A 25-Year Journey

Celebrating a Quarter-Century: Blackberry Smoke's Enduring Legacy

Blackberry Smoke is currently commemorating its silver jubilee as a musical ensemble, embarking on an extensive summer concert series that spans major cities like New York and Nashville, extending into Canada. A notable aspect of these performances is the inclusion of Jason Newsted, formerly the bassist for Metallica, who now leads his own group, Chophouse Band, as a special opening act.

A Confluence of Talent: Starr and Newsted's Shared Narrative

In a recent installment of Rolling Stone's Nashville Now podcast, Charlie Starr, the frontman for Blackberry Smoke, engaged in a conversation with Newsted. They discussed their initial meeting, the synergy of their joint tour, and the obstacles each has encountered within their respective musical careers. For Blackberry Smoke, a particularly poignant challenge was the untimely passing of their original drummer, Brit Turner, in 2024, following a battle with brain cancer. Despite this immense sorrow, Starr conveyed Turner's unwavering wish for the band to persist, leading to Kent Aberle stepping in to perform when Turner was no longer able.

The Heartbreaking Reality: Brit Turner's Final Days and Enduring Spirit

Starr articulated that witnessing his close friend and bandmate lose his ability to play was the most agonizing experience. He recounted Turner's candid awareness of his deteriorating motor skills, saying, "Brit knew he was losing his motor skills. It was so crazy to talk to somebody that knows this is happening to them.” Starr added, “He was like, ‘I can’t hold onto my drumsticks anymore… And there were certain songs he was like, ‘Can we please not play this?’ I didn’t even know I knew what to say to him, but it was, ‘We’ll do whatever the heck you want to do. I’m so glad you’re here.’”

The Universal Struggle: Cancer's Impact on Musicians' Lives

Both Starr and Newsted extensively shared their personal experiences with cancer, either directly or through loved ones. Newsted himself received a throat cancer diagnosis in 2025, a topic he discussed in depth during the Nashville Now episode.

An Unyielding Spirit: Turner's Resolve Until the Very End

Starr further emphasized Turner's indomitable will throughout his illness, stating, “Even to the very end,” he says. This testament to Turner's spirit underscores the deep bond and shared commitment within the band.