“GRAMMY® winner Chi Cheng of the Deftones was a powerful bassist who was larger than life on stage. Playing on the group’s first five albums, . Although the group’s early years were more , they were one of the first bands to incorporate , blazing a trail that newer bands continue to follow today. The music industry has lost a proud and passionate performer all too soon, and our sincerest condolences go out to his family, his bandmates, and his fans worldwide who are mourning his untimely and unfortunate passing.  

Neil Portnow

President/CEO

The Recording Academy