Two Bee Gees drummers have died just four days apart 

Two Bee Gees drummers have died within less than a week of one another.

According to a new report by The New York Times, the death of Dennis Byron – who played on some of the band’s biggest hits  – was confirmed by former Bee Gees member Blue Weaver on Facebook last Thursday (November 14).

“I am lost for words at the moment… Dennis has passed away. Kayte, Dennis’s wife has just called me and asked if I would let all friends and fans know. This was such a shock,” he wrote in the update. “Dennis has been my friend, since we were in our first band together age 15. His great drumming will always Stay Alive…”

The two also worked together in the UK bands Amen Corner and Fair Weather.

Born in Cardiff, Wales in 1949, Byron began drumming as a teenager and went on to join the Gibb brothers in 1973 – just as they made their transition into disco. He famously contributed to hits including ‘Night Fever’, ‘How Deep Is Your Love’, ‘Stayin’ Alive’ and ‘You Should Be Dancing’.

Just days later, it was confirmed that the band’s first drummer, Colin “Smiley” Petersen died on November 18. He was 78 years old.

The update was shared via a Facebook post by his band Best of The Bee Gees, which read: “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.”

The Times (via Consequence) has reported that Petersen died from a fall, according to Evan Webster and Sue Camilleri, fellow members of a tribute band.

Peterson played on some of the Bee Gees’ earliest recordings, after joining brothers Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb in the band in 1966, following their move from Australia to London.

He first contributed to the band’s 1966 album ‘Spicks and Specks’, before playing on all four of their LPs released under Polydor/Atco. His drumming can be heard on hits like ‘To Love Somebody’ and ‘Holiday’.

Peterson’s final album with the Bee Gees was ‘Cucumber Castle’ in 1970, after which he eventually left the group following disagreements with manager Robert Stigwood. He subsequently formed the band Humpy Bong with singer-songwriter Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell, which broke up shortly after.

He then went on to start a management company in 1969 with his wife Joanne Newfield. The couple have two sons, Jaime and Ben. Petersen performed shows with the band as recently as last Saturday (November 16) in Queensland, Australia.