Bee Gees’ original drummer turns 78

Colin Petersen, the Bee Gees’ first drummer who played on some of the band’s early hits, has died. He is 78 years old.

His current band, Best of The Bee Gees, announced his death on Facebook on Monday (November 18), but did not give a cause of death. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Peterson,” the statement read, accompanying a photo of Peterson smiling behind a drum kit. “He enriched our lives and bound our team together with love, care and respect. Don’t know how we would have gone on without his bright smile and deep friendship. We love you Colonel, rest in peace.”

Peterson was a member of the Bee Gees in 1966, along with brothers Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb and Maurice Gibb. All members moved to London from Australia. After contributing drums to the 1966 album spikes and spotsPetersen played on all four Polydor/Atco albums, including the 1967 Bee Gees No. 1which featured hits such as “New York Mining Disaster 1941,” “Love Someone” and “Holiday.” He continued to play drums in 1968 horizontal1968 idea — which include “I’ve Gotta Get a Message to You” and “I Started a Joke” — as well as the 1969 Odessa. His last album with the Bee Gees was in the 1970s cucumber castle.

After leaving the band due to disagreements with manager Robert Stigwood, Peterson formed Humpy Bong with singer-songwriter Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell . After a brief stint in the group, Humpy Bong split, and Petersen founded a management company with his wife, Joanne Newfield, in 1969. The couple has two sons, Jaime and Ben.