Manchester Orchestra drummer Timothy “Tim” Very has died at the age of 42. The news was confirmed by the Atlanta-based band in a statement shared on social media on Saturday (2/14).
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
+ “This is it!”: Chris Paul confirms retirement after 21 seasons
In an emotional message, the band members said they were “devastated” by the sudden loss of the musician. “The most beloved human that any of us were lucky enough to know in this lifetime,” the group wrote. The statement highlighted Tim’s welcoming nature, his contagious laugh, and the positive energy that, according to them, kept “the entire universe of the band together.”
“Strangers quickly became friends and friends became family,” another excerpt read. The band also emphasized Tim’s love for both his family and music. “The only thing Tim loved more than creating music was being with his family. You would be hard-pressed to find a more joyful father.”
Career with the Band
Timothy Very officially joined Manchester Orchestra in 2011 following the departure of drummer Jeremiah Edmond. The band was formed in 2004 in the suburbs of Atlanta by vocalist Andy Hull.
Very made his stage debut with the group in Camden, London, during the U.K. tour for the album Simple Math. In an interview at the time, he revealed that he became physically ill from nerves before the performance. “I threw up during it. It’s been incredible. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” he said, expressing his excitement about the new chapter.
Over the years, the drummer contributed to multiple studio releases and international tours. Outside the band, he also developed his own creative projects, including content shared on his YouTube channel.
International Success
Despite its name referencing the English city, Manchester Orchestra was founded in the United States and gained worldwide recognition. The song “Simple Math” earned two MTV Video Music Award nominations and was recognized at the European Camerimage Awards.
With the album Cope, the band reached No. 5 on the U.K. Albums Chart. In 2017, the single “The Gold” topped Billboard’s Adult Alternative Songs chart.
In addition to his work with the band, Andy Hull and guitarist Robert McDowell also composed the soundtrack for the film Swiss Army Man, starring Daniel Radcliffe.
Legacy
Tim Very leaves a lasting mark on the history of Manchester Orchestra and in the lives of fans around the world. In their statement, his bandmates summarized their sense of loss: “You are a force of positivity that will be a constant presence for the rest of our days.”
So far, no information has been released regarding funeral services or official tributes.
Source and images: Instagram @manchesterorchestra | Billboard.
