Linkin Park Dedicates 2017 American Music Awards Win to Chester Bennington: ''Make Him Proud''

Rock group lost their co-lead singer to suicide earlier this year

By McKenna Aiello Nov 20, 2017 3:45 AMTags

The show must go on, but Linkin Park took a moment to honor Chester Bennington at tonight's 2017 American Music Awards

The alternative-rock group's lead singer passed away in mid-July, shocking band members and their millions of fans who followed Bennington's decades in the spotlight. Linkin Park canceled their tour in the wake of him committing suicide, and a surprise appearance at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles Sunday evening marked their first in months.

Upon accepting the honor for Favorite Alternative Rock Artist, Mike Shinoda, Rob Bourdon and Brad Delson shared a heartwarming message remembering Chester's legacy. 

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2017 American Music Awards: Red Carpet Fashion
Kevin Winter/Getty Images

"We want to dedicate this award to him, to his memory, to his talent, to his sense of humor, to his joy," they shared. "And remember, you guys, all of you tonight, whether you're a fan or an artist—I want you guys to take a moment to appreciate what you've got. And make Chester proud."

Two moths after his tragic passing, fans organized public memorials all around the world. Linkin Park shared an emotional montage video of the many candlelight vigils, tributes and balloon send offs that took place in places like Peru, Greece, Indonesia, Russia, Kazakhstan and beyond.  

They've also championed mental health awareness like never before, and in late October, held a concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Bennington's memory. Linkin Park launched the Give to the One More Light Fund to support Bennington's favorite Music for Relief program, Solar Suitcases, as well as individuals and families coping with mental and emotional struggles.

Gone, but certainly never forgotten. 

If you or someone you know needs help, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.
For complete coverage of the 2017 American Music Awards, watch E! News Monday night at 7 & 11 p.m.