Died On This Date (May 8, 2024) John Barbata / Drummer For The Turtles, CSNY, & More

John Barbata
April 1, 1945 – May 8, 2024

As reported by Jeff Tarmarkin in Best Classic Bands, renowned drummer John Barbata, celebrated for his impactful contributions to iconic bands like the Turtles, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and both Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship passed away on May, 8, 2024. He was 79.

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, Barbata rose to fame within California’s rock scene of the 1960s and 1970s. His career began with the Sentinals, an instrumental surf band based in San Luis Obispo from 1961 to 1965.

Before long, Barbata joined the Turtles where he remained until 1969 before transitioning to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, replacing their drummer Dallas Taylor. His drumming is featured prominently on the group’s live album, 4 Way Street, and on various solo and collaborative projects by the band members.

During a hiatus of CSN&Y in 1972, Barbata was introduced to Jefferson Airplane by David Crosby, subsequently replacing their drummer Joey Covington. He contributed to the Airplane’s final studio album, Long John Silver, and the live record Thirty Seconds Over Winterland. Following the band’s evolution into Jefferson Starship, Barbata played on Dragon Fly, Red Octopus, Spitfire, and Earth.

In later years, Barbata was a sought-after session drummer, contributing to recordings by notable artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Ry Cooder, Johnny Rivers, John Sebastian, the Everly Brothers, and Judee Sill.

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