On Tuesday, Jimmy Kimmel shared on Instagram the sad news that Cleto Escobedo III, who led his show’s band and was his best friend since childhood, had died at 59. In the monologue, Kimmel offers a touching tribute to someone he has known since his family relocated to Las Vegas when he was nine, and with whom he collaborated on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for 22 years.

Throughout the 22-minute monologue, Kimmel reflects on his youthful friendship with Escobedo, noting that both Escobedo and his father were professional saxophonists before they established the band for the show in 2003.

“I’m devastated by his loss. I’m going to take another lesson from him and recognize how fortunate I was to have him right by my side for so many years,” a visibly emotional Kimmel expresses. “Value your friends. We’re not here forever.”