The world-changing instrument-maker was 88 years old
The founder and chief executive of Remo Inc. percussion, Remo D. Belli, has passed away at the age of 88, sparking tributes from around the world.
According to the Santa Clarita Valley Signal, Belli died on Monday (US time) following the onset of health complications that developed into pneumonia. Remo Inc. president Broach Kaericher told the paper the company's founder had passed "in the middle of the day"; "It was kind of shocking to everyone," Kaericher said.
The company confirmed Belli's death in a statement posted to their website and social media channels, announcing the news "with great sadness".
"An innovator, pioneer and icon of the world of percussion, he was an inspiration to us all for breaking new ground and making a difference in the world," the company wrote of Belli, who helped bring the organisation to prominence — and reshaped the musical landscape — following his invention of the world's first synthetic drumhead.
Don't miss a beat with our FREE daily newsletter
"Remo was a visionary. In 1957, he invented the first successful synthetic drumhead, which forever changed the sound of music for all genres. He committed himself and his company to providing drummers, the world over, with quality products and programs while striving to expand the acceptance of rhythm and in particular drumming as an integral component of an individual's wellbeing.
"Through his ongoing efforts, the professional, the enthusiast, children, the elderly, those at risk and those faced with both emotional and physical challenges have been brought the joy of drumming."
As the SCVS notes, Belli remained an innovator throughout his career, spearheading the launch of 100%-recycled wood-fibre drums in 1983, as well as putting great stock in the health benefits of participating in music, leading to the inclusion of drum circles in his company's repertoire.
It's a hallmark not likely to change, with the company promising in its statement to "continue to pursue his vision of making drumming available to everyone alive".
Belli's passing has seen an outpouring of recognition from musicians, contemporaries and industry types around the world, including original Underoath drummer Aaron Gillespie, Korn drummer Ray Luzier, Miss May I's Jerod Boyd, The Offspring's Pete Parada, Hollywood Vampires' Matt Sorum and more.
2016 just won't quit. R.I.P. Remo belli. Ain't nothing on my drums ever but crowns
— aaron gillespie (@aaronrgillespie) April 27, 2016
Promark pays respects to #RemoBelli, your impact was a lasting one. #drumfam pic.twitter.com/of3vF7lxG2
— PromarkSticks (@promarksticks) April 27, 2016
Evans pays respects to #RemoBelli, an inspiration for drummers everywhere. #drumfam pic.twitter.com/zH5DyM3eCQ
— Evans Drumheads (@EvansDrumheads) April 27, 2016
A few years ago at one of his many drum circles for kids, Hudson loved them! R.I.P. Remo Belli,… https://t.co/K0z4ujKkwt
— Ray Luzier (@RayLuzier1) April 27, 2016
Roy remembers Remo Belli and his legacy: https://t.co/W4jdQtDRj7 @remopercussion pic.twitter.com/USaJEavZO5
— Aquarian Drumheads (@AquarianHeads) April 27, 2016
It's amazing being part of the best drumhead company in the world, but it saddens me to see this. RIP Remo Belli pic.twitter.com/Xp800gGspv
— Jerod Odoyken Boyd (@jerodboyd) April 27, 2016
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Remo Belli. One of the greatest innovators of percussion. pic.twitter.com/z6NMnziyko
— Pete Parada (@PeteParada) April 27, 2016
It's with great sadness we learned today of the passing of Remo Belli, innovator & legend in the drum industry. RIP pic.twitter.com/B7hu4IvcoJ
— British Drum Co (@britishdrumco) April 27, 2016
Extremely saddened to learn of Remo Belli's passing. We at GC owe a debt of gratitude to our friend & drum legend. pic.twitter.com/75WBV7L1e9
— Guitar Center (@guitarcenter) April 27, 2016
We are saddened by the news of the passing of Remo Belli, founder of @remopercussion. pic.twitter.com/I9vmqD0833
— Yamaha Corporation (@YamahaCorpUS) April 27, 2016
Thank you Remo for bringing so much joy to so many listening and playing @remopercussion #rip #remobelli pic.twitter.com/k1oKHzqBpw
— matt sorum (@mattsorum) April 26, 2016