We lost our longtime agent, manager, and dear friend Dave Shapiro in a tragic plane accident on Thursday morning, along with other close colleagues and friends. It’s hard to put into words how much this man meant to so many of us. He made a profound impact in such a short time and touched countless lives around the world.
We started working together nearly twenty years ago, when we were all in our early twenties—I think Jaime might have even been 19. Dave had just left his band, Count the Stars, and started booking for Equal Vision Records. We were the first band he ever booked, and we haven’t left each other’s side since. We even lived at Dave’s house between tours when we needed a place to stay, not just because we were broke, but because we just loved being around each other. He always looked out for us, no matter what.
Friendship meant everything to Dave. He loved being around people and never wanted the excitement to end. He fought hard for the people he loved and wanted everyone around him to succeed. He taught us the importance of growing roots in this industry and showed us that longevity is the key to building a real career in music. We owe him everything. We’re proud of what we built together—but we’d give it all back in a heartbeat just to hear him tell a joke or one of his funny stories right now.
Dave, we’re really gonna miss you. You were taken from us too soon. Thank you for giving us everything you had while you were here. Every time we take the stage, it will be in your memory. Our hearts go out to your wife, family, and the friends you loved so dearly. We’re also holding close the families of the colleagues and dear friends we lost in the crash as well. Rest in peace.
Photo: Aaron Berkshire