Colin Petersen, Original Bee Gees Drummer, Passes Away at 78
Colin Petersen, the original drummer for the legendary Bee Gees, has passed away at the age of 78. The news was confirmed by Evan Webster from Best of the Bee Gees, a tribute group with which Petersen had recently performed.
“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen,” Webster announced on the band’s Facebook page. “He was a cherished part of our lives, bringing warmth, humor, and endless kindness. His radiant smile and friendship will be deeply missed.”
From Child Star to Bee Gees Drummer
Before making his mark in the music world, Petersen found early fame as a child actor, starring in the 1955 film Smiley alongside Sir Ralph Richardson. The role earned him his lifelong nickname, “Smiley,” and opened doors to other acting opportunities.
Petersen later crossed paths with the Gibb brothers in Australia, eventually joining the Bee Gees after reconnecting with them in England. He became the first non-Gibb member of the group, contributing his talents to several of their early classic albums, including Bee Gees’ 1st, Horizontal, Idea, and Odessa. He was also involved, though uncredited, on Cucumber Castle.
Hits and Departure
During his time with the Bee Gees, Petersen played on timeless tracks such as “To Love Somebody,” “Massachusetts,” and “Words.” In a 2022 interview with the Strange Brew podcast, Petersen reflected on his approach to drumming, emphasizing creativity over technicality. “I’ve always been a song guy when it comes to drumming,” he explained.
However, tensions arose behind the scenes. Petersen departed the band in 1969 following disputes with the Bee Gees’ manager, Robert Stigwood, over financial disagreements.
Life After the Bee Gees
After leaving the band, Petersen formed a group called Humpy Bong with singer Jonathan Kelly, though the band was short-lived. He then managed Kelly’s solo career before eventually returning to Australia in 1974 with his wife, Joanne Newfield, to raise their two sons, Jaime and Ben. Petersen continued working in the music industry in various production and management roles.
A Return to the Stage
Years later, Petersen was invited to perform with Best of the Bee Gees, a Bee Gees tribute band. Initially hesitant, he was soon impressed by the group’s talent and professionalism. “By the third song, I thought, ‘Bloody hell, this band is fantastic,’” he recalled in a 2022 interview with the Fassifern Guardian. Despite his nerves, Petersen eventually returned to the stage, driven by his perfectionism and love for the music.
A Lasting Legacy
Colin Petersen’s contribution to the early Bee Gees sound remains an essential chapter in the band’s storied history. Beyond his musical achievements, he will be remembered as a kind, humble, and endlessly creative soul who left a lasting impression on those who knew and worked with him.