Bee Gees legend Colin Petersen has died.
The Best of Bee Gees announced: "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."
Petersen was the original drummer for the iconic band and played a huge part in the group's early success. Among some of the classic tunes he was a contributor to included To Love Somebody and Words.
The star began his career as a child actor and featured on classic Australian film, Smiley. It was this involvement that helped him acquire his nickname 'Smiley'.
Image:
Popperfoto/Getty Images)Tributes poured in for the musician following the news. On Facebook, a fan page said: "More sad news. Colin Petersen, the Bee Gees’ first drummer in the 1960s, has passed away this morning. He played and recorded songs like “New York Mining Disaster 1941”, “To Love Somebody”, “Massachussetts”, “Words” and many more. R.I.P. Colin"
On Twitter/X, another user penned: "I hate to be the bearer of bad news this morning, but it appears we have lost another member of the Bee Gees family. Colin Petersen, the original drummer from the 60’s, has passed away. This was taken from the GSI FB group. May his memory be a blessing."
Petersen is survived by his ex-wife Joanne and their sons Jaime and Ben.
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