The man whose body was discovered off the Malibu coast this week was identified by loved ones as Braden Pontoli, a respected musician and composer known for his “beautiful baritone voice.”
Authorities recovered the naked body of Pontoli, 36, from the ocean just north of Malibu Lagoon on Wednesday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Friends said Pontoli had been reported missing after failing to appear for a scheduled in-person interview in Santa Monica earlier this week.
According to his website, Pontoli worked across several disciplines as a composer, conductor, musician, sound artist and “sound healer.”
“When it comes to his music, Braden bends genres, throughout his breadth of work on stage, on screen, and in the wild. Braden’s work has been characterized as meditative, invigorating, and energizing,” his website states.
The site also said Pontoli was due to begin a 2027 residency in Iceland focused on “sound installation” and “traditional folksong arrangements.”
His partner, Tommy Lei, remembered Pontoli as the “music and soundtrack in my world” in a tribute mourning his death.
“This isn’t the post I want to make. Braden, you are so loved and beloved. You were the music and soundtrack in my world. I still don’t believe this is real. We miss you so much already,” Lei wrote.
The Claremont Chorale, a choir based in eastern Los Angeles County, said Pontoli had performed solo parts with the group and praised his “beautiful baritone voice.”
“He was always kind, patient, and generous, and his musical gifts brought joy and healing to many. This is such a sad time for everyone whose life he touched. We wish comfort to his loved ones and offer our many condolences to all who are grieving,” the choir said.
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Another friend shared a tribute on social media, writing that Pontoli had helped “shape” his life.
“Your musicianship and composer chops have always inspired me and driven me to be better. I can’t really put into words what’s in my heart at the moment, but I am so grateful that our paths did cross, and for the friendship that we shared,” the friend wrote.
An investigation into his death is ongoing, but authorities said there was no clear indication of foul play.
