Colin Petersen, the band’s first drummer Bee Gees He died at the age of 78.

The news was announced in a Facebook post by his band Best of The Bee Gees on Monday, November 18. No cause of death was stated.

“We are saddened to announce the death of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen,” the statement reads. “He enriched our lives and united our group with love, care and respect. I’m not sure how we could go on without his bright smile and deep friendship. We love you, Colonel. Rest in peace.”

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

He first contributed to the band’s 1966 album ‘Spicks and Specks’ and subsequently played on all four of the band’s LPs released under Polydor/Atco. His drum sound can be heard in hit tracks such as ‘To Love Somebody’ and ‘Holiday’.

Peterson’s last album with the Bee Gees was ‘Cucumber Castle’ in 1970, after which he left the band due to disagreements with manager Robert Stigwood. He later formed the band Humpy Bong with singer-songwriter Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell, which disbanded shortly after.

He later founded a management company with his wife, Joanne Newfield, in 1969. The couple has two sons named Jaime and Ben.

Before joining the Bee Gees, Peterson’s first experiences in the spotlight came as a child actor with his role in the 1956 film Australia. smiley face.

So sad to hear that Bee Gees drummer Colin Peterson has passed away at the age of 78. Colin and his wife Joanne are seen here in 1969 pic.twitter.com/CVYIsQt0eT

— Stuart Penney (@StuartPenney1) 18 November 2024

More than 50 years after leaving the Bee Gees, Peterson joined Best of The Bee Gees and toured Australia, playing some of the band’s most iconic hits.

told in 2021 ABC Australia: “I was truly a part of creating something that people carry in their hearts.”

Sue Camilleri, the Memorial group’s publicist, said Peterson was a “very special and loved” person.

“His insight and professionalism were appreciated on and off stage…he was unique and loved sharing the road and the spotlight with us,” he said.

Petersen performed with the band in Queensland, Australia, last Saturday (November 16).