Renato Tommaso, the beloved bassist of the Brazilian band Jota Quest, passed away on Sunday, December 29, at the age of 54. The announcement of his death was confirmed by the band's vocalist, Rogério Flausino, through social media, where he expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his long-time friend and bandmate.
“Nossos mais profundos sentimentos pela triste e prematura partida do querido amigo e parceiro de caminhada Renato Tommaso. Grande músico e profissional gigante que esteve conosco nestes últimos 18 anos, fosse na estrada, nos estúdios ou nos palcos, se dedicando ao máximo, e vivendo com a gente lado a lado, momentos sempre muito especiais,” wrote Flausino, expressing heartfelt condolences and memories shared over their years together.
Tommaso was not only known for his musical talent but also for his warm personality. He had been part of Jota Quest for almost two decades, becoming integral to the band’s identity and success. The official social media account of Jota Quest highlighted his professionalism and the irreplaceable void his absence would create. “Grande amigo, um pai de família exemplar, baixista incrível, superprofissional, parceiro de infindáveis papos sobre música, futebol, cultura e tudo que viesse à tona,” the statement read, showcasing the multifaceted nature of Tommaso's character.
The cause of Tommaso’s death has yet to be disclosed, leaving fans and family alike pondering the sudden loss. Throughout his 18 years with the band, he shared countless tours, recording sessions, and live performances with his colleagues. His dedication to music and his friends has left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Não temos palavras para expressar toda a dor e tristeza que estamos sentindo agora. Difícil daqui pra frente fazer um show e não lembrar de você, meu amigo! Nossas sinceras condolências à Dani, à forte Renata e todos os familiares e amigos. Vá em paz, amigo!!!” stated the family of Jota Quest, underscoring the emotional weight of his loss. Indeed, his passing will make every concert feel incomplete without his presence.
Tommaso is survived by his wife, Dani, with whom he had shared 29 years of marriage, and their daughter Renata, 26, who also took to social media to pay tribute to her father. Expressing her grief, Renata wrote, “Até as saudades, que vão ser eternas, não se comparam ao meu amor por você, papai. Descanse em paz, nos vemos um dia.” These poignant words echo the sentiments felt by many who loved Tommaso.
The funeral will take place on Monday, December 30, at the Cemitério da Saudade (Cemetery of Saudades) in Belo Horizonte. The wake is scheduled from 1 PM to 4 PM, followed by the burial at 4:30 PM. This private ceremony will provide family and friends with the opportunity to celebrate the life and contributions of this extraordinary musician.
While Tommaso has left this world, his music and the memories he created with Jota Quest will endure, encapsulated within the hearts of fans and fellow musicians. His legacy, marked by joy and camaraderie, will forever resonate through the melodies he helped craft and the lives he touched during his time with the band.