LOS ANGELES: Musician Travis Barker has opened up about the emotional memories he shares with his late mother, Gloria, recalling the heartfelt advice she gave him shortly before her death.

Speaking on the CNN podcast All There Is with Anderson Cooper on August 20, Barker remembered being with his mother just one day before he was due to begin high school. He said he had no idea at the time that she was nearing the end of her life.

Barker recalled being told to get to his mother quickly and said he was fortunate to arrive before she died. During their final moments together, Gloria encouraged her son to pursue music, telling him that she wanted him to follow a career in music.

Travis Barker Says His Mother’s Final Words Shaped His Music Career

When host Anderson Cooper asked Barker whether those words were his mother’s final words to him, he confirmed that they were.

Barker said the conversation changed the direction of his life, describing the experience as giving him a kind of “tunnel vision.” He explained that he believes parents who pass away can continue to guide their children in different ways.

His mother died on September 3, 1990, after being diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease. Barker said her influence remained with him as he began pursuing music immediately after her death.

The drummer recalled going to school the following day and auditioning for the band. He successfully earned a place in the marching band’s snare line, which he described as a major achievement at the time. He later joined the jazz band and orchestra as he immersed himself in music.

Barker explained that after losing his mother, he largely focused on playing drums and had little else to turn to. Music became a way for him to cope with the loss while also following the path his mother had encouraged him to pursue.

The Blink-182 drummer became emotional while discussing his mother and said he does not view her as simply someone who is gone. Instead, he believes her presence continues to influence his life.

Barker expressed gratitude for the opportunities and success he has experienced, saying he feels his mother and other loved ones who have passed away continue to guide him.