Original Bee Gees drummer Colin Petersen | Image: Facebook/Best of the Bee Gees Global pop rock band Bee Gees ’ original drummer Colin “Smiley” Petersen has died at the age of 78, his representatives have confirmed. Without disclosing the cause of death, The Best of the Bee Gees announced Petersen’s passing on their Facebook page on Monday, Nov. 18.
“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,” they captioned their post alongside the drummer’s photo. In 1966, Petersen joined brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb as part of the Bee Gees.
His first contribution to the band was for the “Spicks and Specks” album. The late drummer then played on all four of the group’s albums, including 1967’s Bee Gees’ 1st, which featured hits like “New York Mining Disaster 1941,” “To Love Somebody,” and “Holiday,” before he left the band in 1969. Aside from the aforementioned, Bee Gees is known for their hits “How Deep is Your Love,” “Stayin’ Alive,” and “Too Much Heaven,” among others.
READ : Aegis vocalist Mercy Sunot dies at 48 after battling breast and lung cancer Before Petersen’s death, Robin died in 2012 at the age of 62, and Maurice died in 2003 at the age of 53. Barry, 78, is now the only living member of t.