John Barbata, the drummer for iconic bands such as the Turtles, Jefferson Airplane, and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, passed away at the age of 79. His death was announced on social media by Jefferson Airplane, though the cause of death was not disclosed. Barbata joined the Turtles after leaving his high school band and had immediate success, drumming on the band’s hit track “Happy Together,” which became a pop classic. He described the quick rise to fame the song brought the band, including performances on shows like “The Ed Sullivan Show” where he witnessed the fervor of 1960s teen fans firsthand.
Barbata would later leave the Turtles in 1970 to join Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, playing on their live album and tour “4 Way Street.” He declined an offer to join the Eagles and instead continued working with C.S.N.Y. and played on several of the band members’ solo projects. He then joined Jefferson Airplane in 1972 and later Jefferson Starship, contributing his drumming skills to Jefferson Airplane’s final studio album, “Long John Silver,” and working as a session drummer. By the end of his musical career, Barbata had worked on over 100 albums and was involved in 20 hit singles, though he wasn’t always credited for his contributions.
After surviving a serious car accident in 1978, Barbata was dropped by Jefferson Starship and decided to leave rock music altogether at the age of 33. He became a born-again Christian and dabbled in Christian music before settling on a ranch in rural Oklahoma with his wife and daughter. He also began making and selling redwood coffee tables. Despite walking away from the music industry, Barbata reflected on his career with gratitude, stating that he was fortunate to have played with some of the best musicians in the world and to have had a successful career that spanned multiple iconic bands.
Throughout his life, John Barbata’s drumming skills were showcased in various performances and recordings, leaving a lasting impact on the rock music scene. His contributions to bands such as the Turtles, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and Jefferson Airplane solidified his reputation as a talented and versatile drummer. Despite his decision to leave rock music behind, Barbata’s legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike, highlighting his significant role in shaping the sound of some of the most iconic bands of the 1960s and 1970s.
