R.I.P. "Wrecking Crew" drummer Hal Blaine (The Raiders' "Kicks" and hundreds of other hits).

[Miles Archer]

Hal Blaine, Wrecking Crew Drummer and Rock Hall of Fame Member, Dies at 90



https://variety.com/2019/music/news/hal-blaine-studio-drummer-dies-at-90-1203160849/

Drummer Hal Blaine, who propelled dozens of major hit records during the ‘60s and ‘70s as a member of the “Wrecking Crew,” Hollywood’s elite, ubiquitous cadre of first-call studio musicians, died Monday, according to a statement from family members on his official Facebook page. He was 90.

“May he rest forever on 2 and 4,” read the statement. “The family appreciates your outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Hal from around the world, and respectfully request privacy in this time of great mourning. No further details will be released at this time.”

According to a 2017 Modern Drummer feature by Dennis Diken (himself the drummer of the New Jersey band the Smithereens), Blaine appeared on more than 35,000 recordings, including some 6,000 singles.

“Blaine’s drumming could be found on all reaches of the Hot 100 — usually near the top,” Diken wrote.

[Leghorn21]

1. A long, long life, well-lived

Thank you, Mr. Blaine, and rock steady, good sir