A Gold Coast musician has been remembered as being ‘one of a kind’ after he was found dead just hours after he played a gig at a live music venue.
Benaiah Fiu, 32, the guitarist for Sex Drive, Strange Motel, Friction Control and Paper died on Friday, January 12.
His mother found him on Saturday morning after he passed in his sleep, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported, however his cause of death has not been confirmed.
Watch the latest news and stream for free on 7plus >>
Fiu had played a gig at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh the night before he was found dead with his band Strange Motel.
Hours before his gig, Fiu promoted it in his final post on Facebook.
“Tonight! We got Tapered LTD, Strange Motel, Boiling Hot Politician and Antenna rockin out from 7pm onwards at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse,” he wrote.
Music website Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie Zine paid tribute to Fiu on its Instagram page and said his death was a shock to the local music community.
“On Friday night we saw your beautiful smile, felt your warm embrace, and watched you up on stage making music that made you so happy,” the post said.
“We wish it wasn’t for the last time. We’re in shock. You’re one of a kind. The world’s a lot less brighter today. We miss you and love you!”
Fiu’s sister confirmed his death in a devastating tribute on Instagram.
“On Saturday we said goodbye to my big brother Benaiah. I’m devastated and in so much pain,” she wrote.
“It was a tragic morning, emotions are high, tears are constant, but there is so much love for Benaiah and the life he lived.
“Benaiah lived such a full amazing life. He loved so deeply, played, sung, and wrote so passionately, was so deeply intentional, had so much influence, and did whatever he wanted.”
She added she loved his “chaotic brain, our cute breakfast dates, seeing you sing and play, all your emotions, all your questions, seeing how excited you got”.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be your sister. I’m not ready to say goodbye,” she said.
Fiu’s funeral will be held on January 22 before a paddle out to honour his love of the ocean on January 25.
