On Wednesday, Brian “Brizz” Gillis – a founding member of the iconic 90s boy band LFO – sadly passed away at 47.
Tragically, Gillis is the third member of LFO to perish; Rich Cronin succumbed in 2010 at 36 years old after succumbing to both a stroke and leukemia, followed by Devin Lima passing away from adrenal cancer two years ago at 41.
With a heavy heart, member Brad Fischetti broke the saddening news of his former bandmate passing via LFO’s Facebook page on Thursday. Unfortunately, no further details of their beloved friend’s death have been released yet.
“My relationship with Brian was complex. It contained moments of great tribulation but also of great joy,” Fischetti stated. “I learned a lot from him about the business of music and how to put together and rock a show. And it’s those positive aspects of our relationship that I will lean on now and forever.
“I’ve prayed for Brian every day for many years,” he added. “And I will continue to pray for him, for his beloved father, for his friends, his family, and those who loved him. Special prayers for Pistol Pete and Terry Edwards; two men who hold a special place in my heart and undoubtedly held a special place in Brian’s heart.”
Gillis, Fischetti, and Cronin joined forces to create the iconic ’90s boy band known as Lyte Funkie Ones (LFO) in New Bedford, Massachusetts back in 1995.
In 1997, the trio quickly achieved recognition with their rendition of Yvonne Elliman’s “If I Can’t Have You” and their take on New Kids on the Block’s “Step By Step”.
Fast-forward two years and Gillis would depart the band to pursue his own musical aspirations.
In 1999, Lima stepped in to replace him and LFO went on to produce the classic boy band hit “Summer Girls”.
The group was led by highly controversial boy band manager and fraudster, Lou Pearlman. Sadly, he passed away in prison in 2016.
After more than a decade apart, Fischetti and Lima reunited in 2017 to bring LFO back together.
“I know that soon or maybe already, Brizz will be greeted by Rich and Devin. And I hope that together, they will make some sweet sounds. I would really like that,” Fischetti added.
