Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean and More React To Kobe Bryant’s Shocking and Untimely Death

Musicians across all genres were shaken by the tragic death of former NBA star Kobe Bryant on Sunday (Jan. 26) after the news broke that the legendary Los Angeles Lakers player died following a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. Bryant, along with his eldest daughter, 13-year-old Gianna, were among the nine passengers killed in the crash. Bryant was just 41-years-old.

The news of Bryant’s death shook the entertainment community ahead of the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards, which took place at the STAPLES Center where the basketball star spent his career with the Lakers. The Recording Academy Interim CEO Harvey Mason Jr. called for a moment of silence in Bryant’s memory at the beginning of the show, while Bryant’s life and career were also celebrated throughout the telecast. Boyz II Men and Alicia Keys delivered a touching performance in his honor and his retired jerseys remained illuminated on the ceiling of the STAPLES Center throughout the show.

Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Jana Kramer, Chase Rice, Mitchell Tenpenny, LoCash and Jason Aldean were among the many country artists who took to social media to remember Bryant and share their thoughts and prayers with his family following his untimely death.

“I can’t even put to words the loss for the Bryant Family,” Mitchell Tenpenny tweeted after the news broke. “This is an American tragedy and hard pill to swallow. God has a plan even when it seems to make no sense. Prayers…”

“Heavy heart as I get in bed. Praying for the Bryant family.” Luke Bryan tweeted, adding, “Truly heartbroken.”

Jason Aldean shared a photo of an autographed Bryant jersey, signed by Kobe Bryant to Aldean. Aldean’s message read, “So sad to hear about the passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter today. I literally am sick to my stomach. Always loved watching him play. Definitely one of the greatest of all time. Our sincere condolences go out to his wife and their whole family. I will forever treasure this jersey he signed for me a couple years ago.”

Keith Urban posted to Instagram sharing his condolences writing, “Our hearts break today for Kobe Bryant’s family and friends and everyone he inspired. I never knew him-but somehow felt like I did. Rare. We wish peace and strength to all of you.”

Continue reading for more reactions to Kobe Bryant’s death.