I remember when the news broke that DJ AM and his frequent collaborator Travis Barker were the only two survivors of that plane crash two years ago. It seemed like fate that they were the only ones to make it, almost as if they had some otherworldly purpose to fulfill. But sadly, that wasn’t the case, and trauma from the crash drove DJ AM back to drug addiction, eventually leading to his tragic overdose, one year ago. When I found out that he had passed away, I was devastated, shocked, numbed. Still reeling from Michael Jackson’s heartbreaking death, this was another gut-wrenching blow to the system. It was almost too much to handle. Another one of my icons, departed, just like that.

In the physical, it’s been a year since DJ AM passed away. His flame continues to burn brightly as a symbol of strength, recovery and perseverance, illuminated by those who are fighting and overcoming obstacles of their own. His spirit and legacy will always shine vibrantly in the face of adversity.

Rest in peace to one of the greatest to ever do it.