GRiZ shares heartbreaking story of father’s death before reconciliation

GriZ shared the passing of his Grandfather in a vulnerable post, mere months after the death of his father, with whom he was unable to reconcile before his passing.

GRiZ opened up about losing his father and grandfather on Instagram by sharing one of the most vulnerable reflections he’s ever made public. GRiZ has recently returned from a two-year hiatus where he focused on his mental health, getting healthy and sober, and reconnecting with his family after years of differences. The post walks through the ache of unfinished conversations and the quiet weight of knowing time ran out before they could find their way back to each other. His grandfather, Opa, with whom he shared a special bond throughout his life, passed away just months after the passing of his father this summer. In his post, GRiZ shares that his father passed before they were set to reconnect and reconcile after years of struggle.

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He grounds the grief in perspective, writing a profound and moving tribute to his grandfather, father, grief, death, and the processing of sadness in a multi-slide series. GRiZ, who is not only an incredibly talented artist, is also a true wordsmith. “The sadness is profound, but I have found joy in the memories of my dad and my Opa.. the stories they told, the wisdom they imparted are not gone. I am a living testament to their legacy, embracing the light and the shadow of their lives. I have found depth in the bonds with my family, my friends, and the energy of the world.”

It’s a stripped-down moment from an artist who built a career on joy, connection, and choosing love even when life gets messy. As a beacon of light in a rather heavy genre, GRiZ is a sympathetic soul whose entire schtick is helping people find a home on the dance floor, radiating positivity, love, and peace. Fans flooded him with support, echoing the message he’s promoted for years. Show up for your people, say the thing, and don’t wait to repair what matters, because in the end, it’s who you have, not what you have.

About The Author

Shiv

Hey! I’m Shiv!

Music is the greatest part of my life, I remember discovering dubstep when I was 15/16 and my entire life was altered – robot noises?? I needed MORE!

Now, I live in NYC and have seen over 80 artists of all genres (I’ve lost count). Some of my faves being Odesza, Rezz, Griz, Zeds Dead, Pretty Lights, Of The Trees, Daily Bread, and Kaskade.

You can usually find me in a warehouse under a pashmina.

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