Colin Petersen, First Drummer for the Bee Gees, Dies Aged 78
The news of Colin Petersen’s passing was announced on Monday, November 18, by his band Best of The Bee Gees on Facebook. Petersen was 78 years old at the time of his death, and the cause of death has not been disclosed.
A Tribute to a Legendary Drummer
The statement from Best of The Bee Gees reads, “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen. He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace.”
A Career Spanning Decades
Petersen joined the Bee Gees in 1966, following the band’s move from Australia to London, and played on some of their earliest recordings. He contributed to the band’s 1966 album ‘Spicks and Specks’ and played on all four of their LPs released under Polydor/Atco. His drumming can be heard on hits like ‘To Love Somebody’ and ‘Holiday’.
A Life After the Bee Gees
Petersen’s final album with the Bee Gees was ‘Cucumber Castle’ in 1970, after which he left the group due to disagreements with manager Robert Stigwood. He went on to form the band Humpy Bong with singer-songwriter Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell, which broke up shortly after. In 1969, he started a management company with his wife Joanne Newfield, and the couple have two sons, Jaime and Ben.
A Return to the Spotlight
More than 50 years after his departure from the Bee Gees, Petersen joined Best of The Bee Gees and began touring Australia, playing some of the group’s most iconic hits. In 2021, he told ABC Australia, “I really was a part of the creation of something that people are holding in their heart.”
Recent Performances and Tributes
Petersen performed with the band as recently as last Saturday (November 16) in Queensland, Australia. Sue Camilleri, the tribute band’s publicist, described Petersen as “very special and loved.” She said, “His insights and professionalism were appreciated on and off stage … he was unique and loved sharing the road and the spotlight with us.”
Conclusion
Colin Petersen’s passing leaves a void in the music world, but his legacy as the first drummer for the Bee Gees will live on. His contributions to the band’s early recordings and his dedication to his craft are a testament to his skill and passion. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him and worked with him.
FAQs
Q: How old was Colin Petersen when he passed away?
A: Colin Petersen was 78 years old when he passed away.
Q: What was the cause of Colin Petersen’s death?
A: The cause of Colin Petersen’s death has not been disclosed.
Q: What was Colin Petersen’s role in the Bee Gees?
A: Colin Petersen was the first drummer for the Bee Gees, playing on some of their earliest recordings and contributing to their 1966 album ‘Spicks and Specks’ and all four of their LPs released under Polydor/Atco.
Q: What did Colin Petersen do after leaving the Bee Gees?
A: After leaving the Bee Gees, Petersen formed the band Humpy Bong with singer-songwriter Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell, which broke up shortly after. He also started a management company with his wife Joanne Newfield and has two sons, Jaime and Ben.
Q: When did Colin Petersen rejoin Best of The Bee Gees?
A: More than 50 years after his departure from the Bee Gees, Petersen joined Best of The Bee Gees and began touring Australia, playing some of the group’s most iconic hits.