Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber and More Pay Tribute to Drummer Aaron Spears After His Death at 47

"We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being," wrote Grande on Instagram

Aaron Spears, Grammy-nominated drummer for Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus and more stars, has died. He was 47.

On Monday, Spears' wife Jessica shared news of her husband's death via his Instagram account "with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness" and received tributes from many of the musicians he'd worked with throughout his career.

"Aaron was not only an incredibly accomplished drummer, admired by many for his unparalleled talent and passion for music, but he was also a devoted father to our precious son, August," wrote Jessica on Spears' Instagram. "His love, guidance, and warmth were the pillars of our family, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot describe. We were blessed to have him in our lives, and his legacy will live on through the beautiful rhythms he created and the love he shared with us."

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She continued, "We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please remember Aaron for the incredible person he was and the amazing music he brought into our world. At this time we ask for privacy as we work our way through this."

Spears' cause of death is currently unknown.

Born Oct. 26, 1976, the drummer grew up in Washington, D.C., according to a profile by the drum manufacturer Remo. He grew to love the instrument at a young age and first played professionally with the group Gideon Band at age 23.

Through his work with Gideon Band, per Remo, Spears became connected with Usher and played drums on his 2004 album Confessions, earning a Grammy nomination for his contributions.

Jessica's heartfelt Instagram statement prompted emotional responses from several stars, with Michelle Williams commenting, "I am so sorry!! Sending love and praying!!!"

Fellow drummer Travis Barker commented, "I have no words. I love you so much my brother and will miss you. This doesn’t seem real. Praying for you Jessica and August."

Grande, 30, also sent a message to Jessica in the comments section. "heartbroken. my condolences to you all. i love you guys and i am so sorry. my heart is with you," wrote the "Positions" singer, who then took to her own Instagram Story and shared photos of Spears as well as an extended note about their bond.

"I can’t wrap my head around this. We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being. Always the kindest, always smiling," wrote the Grammy winner. "I am so honored and thankful that our paths crossed and to have spent so much very special time together. Thank you for your utter brilliance, for our laughs, and for your kindness always. I will miss your hugs. You are so, so loved and will be so very missed."

Bieber, 29, shared videos of himself drumming alongside Spears to his Instagram Story in addition to a statement about his death. "We lost a beautiful man and inspiration to all of us drummers," he wrote. "@aspears prayers for your family and loved ones you will be remembered and celebrated."

Questlove of The Roots posted a video of Spears playing drums to Instagram along with a sweet note about his career and legacy. "The world lost a legend today. Husband, father, producers music director, leader drumgod & just a Cotdamn BEAST in Aaron Spears," wrote the musician.

"You’ve seen Aaron drum prolly 5-10 times in your life if you attend concerts & sometimes without knowing. That’s how much in demand his services were (@arianagrande @britneyspears @ladygaga @mileycyrus @backstreetboys @therealmarymary @adamlambert @chakakhan @jordinsparks @usher ……man the list is endless," continued Questlove, 52.

"Condolences to his wife, family, community and all who loved him and were given joy through his musical contributions," added the musician. "This is devastating. Thank you @aspears 🕊️🕊️ 🙏🏾🙏🏾 rest in melody brother."

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