John Barbata, the legendary drummer famed for his time with The Turtles and Jefferson Starship, has passed away at 79.
The music world is mourning the loss of John Barbata, who died on May 8 in Ada, Oklahoma , where he had been living. While the exact cause of death of the rock veteran remains undisclosed, his passing was confirmed by trustworthy sources.
Jefferson Starship took to their official Facebook page to honor Barbata's memory, stating: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of the great John Barbata, Jefferson Starship's original drummer. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans. Rock in peace, Johnny!"
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Sister band Airplane Starship also expressed their condolences, saying: "Rest in Peace, John Barbata, a legendary drummer for Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship. Known for his exceptional talent, John left his mark on the music world by playing with bands such as The Turtles, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jefferson Airplane, and Jefferson Starship."
They added a touching note about his career: "Back in '72, during a hiatus for CSN&Y, David Crosby introduced John to the Airplane, who hired John instantly. You can hear John's drumming skills on the band's final studio album, LONG JOHN SILVER, as well as the live album THIRTY SECONDS OVER WINTERLAND. Rest in Peace, John."
Fans of Barbata have flooded the comments section with heartfelt tributes and expressions of deep respect for the legendary drummer, whose music has profoundly touched their lives. One admirer posted: "He was an outstanding drummer and added great percussion to the Jefferson Airplane, and anybody else that he played with, may he Rest In Peace." Another shared: "What an amazing career! John helped launch Jefferson Starship. RIP." A third fan remarked: "Played a big part in a lot of the music l love."
Barbata shot to fame with his exceptional drumming skills in the 60s, hitting the big time when he joined the iconic rock band The Turtles, where he played for three years. His drumming can be heard on some of their biggest hits such as She'd Rather Be With Me, You Showed Me, Elenore, and many others.
In the 70s, Barbata's career soared as he teamed up with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, playing on their live album 4 Way Street in 1971 and the powerful single Ohio. He then became a member of Jefferson Airplane during their last album and tour in 1972. Following the band's split, they reformed as Jefferson Starship, releasing their debut album in 1974, with Barbata as a founding member and a key performer on all their albums.
In 1978, Barbata's music career came to an abrupt end after a car crash left him with a broken neck, jaw, and arm, leading to his retirement from Jefferson Starship. Post his departure from the band, he set up a recording studio in Comptche, California, where he continued to play locally for the rest of his life.
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