Colin Petersen, the Bee Gees' original drummer, has died.
Known for his contributions to some of the band's major hits and as a child actor, Petersen was 78 at the time of his death, Fox News reported.
Colin Petersen's passing was confirmed by Evan Webster, a member of Best of the Bee Gees, a tribute band that Petersen was part of in his later years. The news shook fans and fellow musicians, highlighting the end of an era for those connected to the Bee Gees' legacy.
Evan Webster expressed deep sorrow regarding Petersen's death. He stated, "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."
Throughout his career with the Bee Gees, Colin Petersen played on influential albums such as "Bee Gees' 1st," "Horizontal," and "Idea." His drumming was integral on tracks like "To Love Somebody" and the iconic "Massachusetts," showcasing his creativity and unique approach to music that resonated with a global audience.
Before his musical fame, Petersen was quite successful as a child actor in Australia. His most notable role was in the 1955 film "Smiley," acting alongside Sir Ralph Richardson, where he earned his endearing nickname. This early spotlight paved the way for his later musical accomplishments.
Colin Petersen met Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, the Gibb brothers of the Bee Gees, in Australia before they all relocated to England. This move solidified their lineup and kickstarted a period of prolific musical output culminating in worldwide fame.
However, in 1969, Petersen's journey with the Bee Gees diverged due to disagreements with the band’s manager, Robert Stigwood. This led to his departure from the group, after which he briefly led a band called Humpy Bong and worked in managing other artists, including Jonathan Kelly.
Colin Petersen moved back to Australia in 1974 where he transitioned to working behind the scenes in the music industry, focusing on production and management. Despite his shift away from performing, his love for music persisted, reigniting when he joined Best of the Bee Gees tribute band five years ago.
Petersen was passionate about his return to music, stating, "After six weeks of this, I put my hand up, and I love it. It’s great." This return was met with enthusiasm from fans and peers alike, offering him a renewed connection to his musical roots.
Remembering his approach to music, Petersen once reflected on his drumming style:
"I was quite imaginative with my playing, but there were a lot of drummers at the time that were technically much more advanced than I was... I’ve always been a song guy with drumming."
Colin Petersen’s legacy is marked not just by the rhythms he provided for the Bee Gees, but also by his early start in film and his resilience in navigating the complexities of the music business. His contributions to music and his brief but impactful acting career remind the entertainment world of his wide-ranging talents.
At his death, Barry Gibb is now the sole surviving original member of the Bee Gees, highlighting the closing chapter of a significant era in music history. Petersen's story is a poignant reminder of the shifts and changes in a life that spanned across entertainment's golden years.
