John Barbata, the drummer for the Turtles, Jefferson Airplane, and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, passed away at the age of 79. His death was announced by Jefferson Airplane on social media, although the cause of death was not provided. Barbata joined the Turtles after leaving his high school band and quickly found success, drumming on their hit song “Happy Together.” He spoke of the sudden fame the song brought to the band and the wild reactions of 1960s fans during their performances.
After leaving the Turtles in 1970, Barbata joined Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, playing on their live album and tour “4 Way Street” in 1971. He later declined an invitation to join the Eagles in favor of remaining with C.S.N.Y. Barbata also played with Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship, contributing to Jefferson Airplane’s final studio album “Long John Silver.” Throughout his career, he worked as a session drummer and was involved in over 100 albums and 20 hit singles.
Barbata was born in New Jersey in 1945 and had a successful career in the music industry. However, after surviving a serious car accident in 1978, he decided to leave rock music and became a born-again Christian at the age of 33. He dabbled in Christian music and eventually settled on a ranch in rural Oklahoma with his wife and daughter, where he made and sold redwood coffee tables. Despite his departure from the music scene, Barbata reflected on his career and expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had to play with some of the best musicians in the world.
Throughout his career, Barbata left a significant impact on the music industry, contributing to the success of multiple bands and artists. He was known for his talent as a drummer and played a key role in the development of iconic songs like “Happy Together” and albums like “4 Way Street.” Even though he walked away from rock music at the height of his career, Barbata’s musical legacy lives on through his extensive body of work and collaborations with some of the most influential musicians of his time.
Barbata’s memoir, “Johny Barbata: The Legendary Life of a Rock Star Drummer,” offers a glimpse into his experiences and memories from his time in the music industry. He recounted stories of performing on television programs like “The Ed Sullivan Show” and the chaotic scenes of 1960s fans during live performances. His decision to leave rock music and embrace a different path later in life speaks to his personal journey and the values that he found important as he transitioned into a new chapter away from the spotlight.
In conclusion, John Barbata’s impact on the music industry as a talented drummer and collaborator with iconic bands like the Turtles, Jefferson Airplane, and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young is evident in his extensive body of work and contributions to numerous albums and hit singles. His decision to leave rock music and pursue a different lifestyle reflects his personal values and beliefs, ultimately leading him to a sense of contentment and fulfillment in his later years. Barbata’s legacy as a rock star drummer continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, highlighting his unique talent and enduring influence on the music world.
