Two legendary drummers who played pivotal roles in the Bee Gees’ success have died within days of one another.
Touring drummer Dennis Bryon died aged 76 in Nashville, Tennessee on November 14, just four days before original Bee Gees drummer Colin “Smiley” Petersen.
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The news of Bryon’s death was confirmed by his former bandmate, Blue Weaver, who performed alongside him in the psychedelic group Amen Corner before Bryon joined the Bee Gees.
“I am lost for words at the moment. Dennis has passed away,” Weaver wrote in a heartfelt social media post.
“Dennis has been my friend since we were in our first band together aged 15. His great drumming will always Stay Alive.”
Bryon 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 their 1970s heyday.
He was the group’s drummer between 1973 and 1981.
Born in Cardiff in 1949, Bryon’s musical career began with Amen Corner before he found global fame with the Bee Gees.
Bryon is survived by his wife Kayte, who confirmed the sad news, while Petersen is survived by his ex-wife.
Meanwhile, fans are also grieving the loss of Petersen, the group’s original drummer, who performed on early hits such as Massachusetts, To Love Somebody, and Words.
Petersen was with the Bee Gees from 1967 to 1969.
The Best of the Bee Gees group posted the sad news on its Facebook page on Tuesday.
“It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen,” the post read.
“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.”
He is survived by two children, Jaime and Ben.
Petersen, originally from Australia, first found fame as a child actor, starring in the film Smiley, which earned him his nickname.
In recent years, Petersen worked closely with The Best of the Bee Gees tribute show.