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Limp Bizkit returned to the stage with a heavy heart in Mexico City, opening their Gringo Papi Tour less than a month after the sudden death of founding bassist Sam Rivers. Fans and bandmates shared a visibly emotional night as the group paid tribute to the musician and introduced the player filling his spot on stage.
Emotional kickoff in Mexico City marks first show since Sam Rivers’ death
The band played November 29 at the Explanada del Estadio Banorte. It was the first performance the group gave since Rivers died of cardiac arrest on October 28.
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Before the set began, the venue screened a commemorative video honoring Rivers. The clip displayed messages such as “Our Brother Forever” and “We Love You Forever,” and the crowd watched in silence.
Concertgoers filmed moments from the gig. Short clips showing the band moving through the set have circulated online, and fans reacted in real time across social platforms.
New live bassist revealed: Richie Buxton, aka Kid Not
Richie Buxton, who performs as Kid Not, stepped in on bass for the Mexico City date. Media outlets reporting from the show identified him as the player filling Rivers’ role for the live run.
At present, Buxton appears to be handling live duties for Limp Bizkit on the tour. The band has not announced a permanent long-term replacement beyond the current dates.
Inside the memorials: what band members and fans shared
Drummer John Otto posted a personal message ahead of the concert. He described the night as one he had hoped never to face and recalled how many important memories he shared with Rivers.
Otto wrote about Rivers’ role in his life. He called him more than a bandmate — a longtime friend and family figure — and promised the band would honor Sam’s memory onstage.
The rest of the band also released a joint statement after Rivers’ passing. They memorialized his contribution to the group and described him as the rhythmic heart of their music. Their message emphasized that Rivers’ influence would remain integral to the band’s sound.
Key facts about Sam Rivers and the tour
- Co-founded Limp Bizkit in the mid-1990s and remained a core member.
- Died October 28 at age 48; reports indicate cardiac arrest as the cause.
- Mexico City show on November 29 was the band’s first performance after his death.
- Richie Buxton (Kid Not) handled bass duties at the November 29 concert.
Fan responses and social tributes
Fans left flowers, messages, and posts across social channels. Several fan accounts shared photos of the memorial visuals shown at the venue.
One international fan account tweeted a simple homage that echoed the memorial video’s tone: “Sam Rivers — Our Brother Forever.”
How the band framed Rivers’ legacy onstage and off
In public comments, band members highlighted Rivers’ influence on both their music and lives. They called attention to his steady musical presence and the warmth he brought to the group dynamic.
They promised to carry that spirit forward in performances and thanked fans for the outpouring of support and memories following his death.
