Jefferson Starship and Turtles drummer John Barbata dies aged 79 | Music | Entertainment | EUROtoday

John Barbata, the legendary drummer identified for his work with iconic bands The Turtles and Jefferson Starship, has sadly died on the age of 79.

The information of Barbata’s dying was confirmed by dependable sources in Ada, Oklahoma, the place he resided, though the reason for the rock veteran’s dying stays undisclosed.

Following the tragic announcement, a heartfelt tribute was shared on the official Jefferson Starship Facebook web page: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of the great John Barbata, Jefferson Starship’s original drummer.

“Our ideas exit to his household, pals and followers. Rock in peace, Johnny!”

Sister band Jefferson Airplane also paid their respects, stating: “Rest in Peace, John Barbata, a legendary drummer for Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship.

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“Known for his exceptional talent, John left his mark on the music world by playing with bands such as The Turtles, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Jefferson Airplane, and Jefferson Starship.”

The touching homage continued: “Back in ’72, during a hiatus for CSNandY, David Crosby introduced John to the Airplane, who hired John instantly.

“You can hear John’s drumming expertise on the band’s ultimate studio album, LONG JOHN SILVER, in addition to the stay album THIRTY SECONDS OVER WINTERLAND. Rest in Peace, John.”

Devastated fans have flooded social media with messages of love and respect for Barbata’s influential work.

One admirer posted: “He was an impressive drummer and added nice percussion to the Jefferson Airplane, and anyone else that he performed with, might he Rest In Peace.”

Another shared: “What a tremendous profession! John helped launch Jefferson Starship. RIP.”

A third fan remarked: “Played an enormous half in numerous the music l love.”

Barbata’s rise to fame started within the 60s when he joined the enduring rock band The Turtles. For three years, his distinctive drumming featured on a few of their largest hits akin to She’d Rather Be With Me, You Showed Me, Elenore, and extra.

In the 70s, Barbata joined the enduring Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, lending his drumming expertise to their stay album 4 Way Street in 1971 and their hit single Ohio. In 1972, he turned a part of the legendary rock band Jefferson Airplane throughout their ultimate album and tour.

Following this, the band underwent a metamorphosis, rebranding themselves as Jefferson Starship and releasing their debut album in 1974, with Barbata as a founding member and contributor to all their albums.

However, in 1978, Barbata’s illustrious music profession was abruptly halted following a automobile accident that resulted in a damaged neck, jaw, and arm, forcing him to step away from Jefferson Starship. Post his departure from the band, Barbata established a recording studio in Comptche, California, and continued to play regionally for the rest of his life.

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