Two famous drummers who played a key role in the success of the Bee Gees have died within the same day.
Touring drummer Dennis Bryan died at the age of 76 on November 14 in Nashville, Tennessee, just four days before original Bee Gees drummer Colin “Smiley” Peterson.
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News of Brian’s death was confirmed by his former bandmate, Blue Weaver, who performed with him in the psychedelic group Amen Corner before Brian joined the Bee Gees.
“I have no words at this moment. Dennis has passed away,” Weaver wrote Heartfelt social media post.
“Dennis has been my friend since we were in our first band together at age 15. His brilliant drumming will live on forever.”
Brian played on some of the Bee Gees’ most iconic disco hits, including Stayin’ Alive and Night Fever, and was a key part of the band’s live performances during the 1970s.
He was the group’s drummer between 1973 and 1981.
Born in Cardiff in 1949, Brian’s musical career began with Amen Corner before rising to global fame with the Bee Gees.
Bryan is survived by his wife Kayte, who confirmed the sad news, while Peterson is survived by his ex-wife.
Meanwhile, fans are also mourning the passing of the group’s original drummer Peterson, who performed on early hits like Massachusetts, To Love Somebody and Words.
Peterson was with the Bee Gees from 1967 to 1969.
The Best of the Bee Gees group posted the sad news on their Facebook page on Tuesday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Peterson,” the post read.
“He enriched our lives and bound our group together with love, care and respect.
“Not sure how we can move forward without his shining smile and deep friendship. We love you Colonel, may your soul rest in peace.”
His two children, Jaime and Ben, survive.
Peterson, originally from Australia, first rose to fame as a child actor, starring in the film Smiley, From which he got his nickname.
In recent years, Peterson teamed up with The Best of the Bee Gees tribute show.
