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Spencer Dryden Obituary
Dryden, who died at his home Tuesday, retired from performing 10 years ago, although he hadn't been working much before that.
"I'm gone," he told the San Francisco Chronicle last May. "I'm out of it. I've left the building."
A benefit concert last year featuring Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead and Warren Haynes of Gov't Mule and raised $36,000 for Dryden, who was in the middle of two hip replacement surgeries and was facing heart surgery at the time. His Petaluma home and all his possessions had been destroyed in a fire in September 2003. He also had been diagnosed with stomach cancer.
Dryden was inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996 for his work with the Jefferson Airplane during the band's glory years - from the breakthrough 1967 "Surrealistic Pillow" album through historic rock festivals such as Woodstock and Altamont.
Born in New York City, Dryden moved with his parents when he was an infant to Los Angeles.
He attended Glendale High School and graduated from the Army and Navy Academy in Carlsbad in 1955. He played in some early rock bands but soon drifted toward jazz and was working as a drummer at the Hollywood strip club the Pink Pussycat when session drummer Earl Palmer recommended him to the Airplane's manager.
He replaced Skip Spence, who went on to start another Fillmore-era San Francisco rock group, Moby Grape. During his stint with the Airplane, Dryden had an affair with the band's female vocalist, Grace Slick, and his marriage to the former Sally Mann was covered extensively in Rolling Stone magazine. He left the band in 1970.
Dryden replaced Mickey Hart in the Grateful Dead sideline country-rock band, New Riders of the Purple Sage, in February 1971 and stayed with that group until 1978.
In the '80s, he joined a group of psychedelic rock veterans called the Dinosaurs that played informally around the San Francisco Bay area along with former members of Big Brother and the Holding Company, Quicksilver Messenger Service, and Country Joe and the Fish. When the other band members reunited for a 1989 Jefferson Airplane reunion album and tour, Dryden was not invited.
He last appeared in public in November, after he was already being treated for cancer, signing autographs and shaking hands at a release party for the DVD of Jefferson Airplane video clips.
He was married three times and is survived by three sons; Jeffrey, Jes and Jackson Dryden. Plans for a memorial concert are pending.
Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press
73 Entries
Hugh Norman
December 26, 2021
I never met Spencer, but sure do wish I had. I keep up with him and his friends with these round vinyl records. Unlike like me they don’t grow old , leave you or even talk about you.. Keep up the good work Jefferson and friends, y’all keep me going !
Janet Attwood
July 28, 2021
I met Spencer in New York in 1968 . He was quiet, gentlemanly, and a bit mysterious.
We met a few times, but it wasn’t romantic, just thoughtful conversations and he was deep , with a wry wit.
Surrealistic Pillow is one of my favorite albums- what a talented artist.
A gift .met Marty Balin at the Cutting Room just before his death- another wonderful member of JA.
Jason Timperley
June 10, 2020
I never met you. You were busy creating the soundtrack to my life while I was busy being a little child in faraway Manchester, England. I took note of every nuance you played. You were stylish, ultra cool and so creative. I wanted to be like you; to leave an indelible mark in history. But I am ordinary. I will soon get chance to talk with you in Heaven.
How you can show support
julie owens
April 25, 2018
THANK YOU for your FRIENDSHIP my fellow next door NEIGHBOR.
and THANK YOU for teaching me to play DRUMS.
R.I.P. my SOLDIER BOY
Harry Simpson
January 11, 2017
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
little steven james
June 29, 2014
Love n miss you. Brother our. Times talking fishing n the music ( n 151 )
Tony Hannah
October 16, 2013
I love your playing Spencer. You never missed a drum fill for the band. God speed and say hi to Jimi.
vince denny
July 22, 2012
I remember the night in Spokane Valley,Washington,watchin' the sun come up over the Couer de'alene Lake.gonna miss you Spence,'til that time,so long,my friend...(the Indian)
April 3, 2010
For Spencer...the drummer for legendary rock band the Jefferson Airplane.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Dan LaRosa
December 2, 2009
Still remember and can still hear Spencer beating the crap out of the "skins" with the Jefferson Airplane and the New Riders of the Purple Sage. Used to try and emulate his style of playing the tubs. Came close a few times, but I was never able to duplicate, bless his pointed little head. Many years later the "sounds" and "music" he helped make still bring a smile to my face and chill down my spine. GOD BLESSED you Mr. Dryden. Thank you after all these years.
Kevin Bell
September 15, 2009
He was a free spirit, similar to that of only Keith Moon,not quite as "crazy". Open ,freestyle druming,surely missed in the music comunity. I started playing drums after my 1st love,the guitar,from watching,and hearing Spencer for so many years.Such diversity!!
The music connection,some people just cannot understand,real musicians are on a different page,no matter how down to earth they are. Rest in Peace my friend,rest in Peace.
Jazmine Brown
August 21, 2009
It is sad when I read about people being lost in death by an illness but something that will give you and me comfort is that in the future those who have lost someone in death will be resurrected in a peaceful paradise with no war,crime,and most of all no death I am certain those who lost someone in death will surely look forward to that time knowing that there loves ones will never grow old or die of anything else. But know that I surely look forward to that time.
Joy Fisher
July 7, 2009
Hey Spencer...Today I was watching the memorial for Michael Jackson, his favorite song was "Smile" written by Charlie Chaplin whom I knew you were related to. Amazing how that whole "Six Degrees of Separation" works :) But I think of you often, the music of JA and the concerts I attended while you were in the band were an integral part of my life and to this day the music continues to touch my heart. Thank you for the gift of your music :) xoxo Joy
Nate Henderson
April 6, 2009
NRPS was, to me, like no other. The Byrds were close and the Amazing Rythum Aces closer. If either had you Spencer as their drummer they would have been even closer. Thank you for the influence in real music and long may you and the NRPS be remembered.
walt wakefield
March 20, 2009
Spencer, you'll never be forgotten
Dennis Rusinak
September 11, 2008
Spencer and I taught at a very busy studio in Glendale, CA. He and I played in a big band. His technical skills, colourful style, creativity really shone in a jazz environment. During this time (early '60s) Spencer was the drummer for a peeler house on Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood, The Pink Pussycat. He regularly entertained us with reports of gigs in that place. Great man, great friend.
davequ q
September 7, 2008
Was thinking of Spencer tonight, as I do sometimes. Reading stories about him and his family.
What a great drummer. I hear the opening toms of "She Has Funny Cars" whenever I'm walking in or even thinking about San Francisco.
I'm sorry for your pain, suffering and personal loss in the last years of your life. I hope now that you are free, happy and at peace. And I hope they have an excellent jazz band where you are now.
Jack K
December 22, 2006
Great guy Spencer was
Joey Mahoney
November 30, 2006
Please stop calling him Spencer Dryden. He was Spencer "BIG TIME" Dryden. If you saw him play drums in the clubs, you know why. Bottom line.....He was a legend
Latania williams
November 26, 2006
My heart goes out to Spencer Dryden family and friends and ones who loved him.I dont know how you feel but I can image what it feels to lose a love one.I still dont understand why people have to die.His legacy will live on.He will be remember for all the good things he has done.I hope they find an cure for cancer.we know his in an better place now.We will meet him in heaven.He will be watching over us.Now are angel dont have to sufer any more.He was in pain because of the cancer.You can never get over death.love you
Kay Weeks
November 1, 2006
Kay Davidson Weeks
Brad Baier
June 8, 2006
No, please God No. Not him, anyone but him. I just can't believe he's gone. He meant so much, to so many. I'm sorry, I just can't write anymore.
I need to go cry now..:-(
James Brown
May 10, 2006
[email protected]
He was a cool guy. I miss him so much
mugo ole
February 4, 2005
Sorry & a bit shocked. For me, Spencer was THE JA drummer. Seldom a week goes by without my listening to a JA CD to/from work, and he will still always be there. "No man is an island, He's a peninsu
AL PHILLIPS
January 30, 2005
I knew you as Nick at Army & Navy Academy and played trumpet in the band with you. I remember the jamming we would do during basket ball games in the gym. And the day we gave an early wake up to the guys in the cabin section with our (damn good) rendition of St. Louis Blues. Your drums barely escaped the hosing down we got as our reward. The trips to Hollywood to listen to Shorty Rodgers and Jack Teagarden on Sunday afternoons when they would let you sit in. You played Shelly Mann's drums!! Tec Crans was with us. I was too chicken to get up there. Shorty even offered me his horn. After we graduated I quit playing. My horn is sitting in my book case as a reminder of those carefree days. Nick, I know you are in a better place. Thanks for the memories, man.
Eben Wilson
January 24, 2005
Spencer, I remember your house up on the hill. I had a great time there. Jesse and I haven't seen each other in years but I still consider him an old and true friend. Thanks for letting a goofy kid like me come around and hang out. Remember the night Heidi had her pups? I cherish having known you. So nice to see your picture on this guestbook. It's been a very long time. And, I'm sorry about the go-cart. Rest In Peace, Spencer Dryden.
gary bron
January 20, 2005
I think the world grows a little dimmer and flatter with his passing
Donita Romero
January 17, 2005
To those who loved and cared for Spencer Dryden. He brought so much Joy, Inspiration and great music that took me to so many grand places! I didn't know him and yet he gave so much to me. Thank you, his loved ones for sharing him with so many.
I don't understand why he had such suffering in the past few years when he had done so much for so many but I guess that will always be a mystery. May he and his feel peace and healing.
Michel Mendoza
January 17, 2005
My dear friend and brother has left the building. I had the honor of playing with Spencer for a couple of years from 1982-1984. I was a kid just starting in music. Spencer was that rarity a player who had risen to the pinnacle and yet who wore his humility like a badge of honor. He always encouraged me, always supported me, always had a kind word. I loved this man as if he were my own father. His parting leaves me with tender and sweet memories. To Jess and to Jackson I extend my warmest embrace and deepest sympathies. You probably have no recollection of me but as little boys I loved and cherished you both. Spencer was the best man at my wedding to my first wife. I am presently a working musician. Everything I am, all that I know I owe to him. Much Love my old friend. Much Love.
Brett Barr
January 17, 2005
Thanks for all the good memories.
DOUBLE B
Pete Peterson
January 16, 2005
Dear friends of Spencer Dryden,
I met Spencer when I first got out
of San Quentin in 1964. (I had served 4 years for possession of pot) Spence was a good friend of pianist Terry Trotter who I was staying with. Spencer helped me to get a drum set and he got me a gig at the Largo a strip club in L.A.
I saw Spencer a few years after he joined the Airplane and I showed him my finger which was getting a small callous. He showed me his hands which looked like a stevedore's with callouses and blisters. He was a good hearted guy and a marvelous drummer. Spencer was always as friendly and helpful to me as he could be. We will miss him.
Larry Smith
January 16, 2005
To the Dryden family: May you be comforted. Spence was an inspiration to me and to millions of others. His contributions will live on forever. Many thanks!
--Larry Smith
Berkley "Jack" Jackson
January 16, 2005
Spencer, better known as "Nick" for the years at Army Navy Academy. Was looking forward to our 50th reunion and noing that you are in a more peaceful place I will make sure that you are remembered forever by all of your classmates. Rest in peace old friend and thanks for the memories.
We will all miss you.
Lori K
January 16, 2005
Thanks for the music it will live on forever to me.
Distant Cousin Geoff Kingman-Sugars
January 16, 2005
Heartfelt condolences to your family. I really regret not meeting up with you again after we made email contact in 1999. Still remember the happy days of your visit to the Festival of Britain in 1951 when you stayed with us.
Rest in peace - be seeing you soon ............
John Sliva
January 16, 2005
Sorry & a bit shocked. For me, Spencer was THE JA drummer. Seldom a week goes by without my listening to a JA CD to/from work, and he will still always be there. "No man is an island, He's a peninsula!"
Karl Levey
January 16, 2005
Spencer, how sad to hear you have passed. Growing up in the Bay Area groovin to all the great local music, the Airplane was definitely one of my favorites. So many great memories...and then to have been privileged to have known you and Peter Albin through our work at City Hall Records in '92, that ranks as one of the high points of my life. Thanks for sharing some of your memories and experiences about the Airplane, Grace, Monterey Pop and Janis, when I would pester you for just one more story and you would oblige. You will be sorely missed my brother. Karl
tom risk
January 16, 2005
say hi to my bro when you get there spence, keep rocking
Beverly Becker
January 15, 2005
When I hear Jefferson Airplane music it takes me back to some of the happiest times of my life. God bless.
T.HANK COOK
January 15, 2005
Guess you ll be in the Best band ever in R & R Heaven now.Your drums will be deaply missed.Next time i hear thunder I know it will be you up there pounding on the drums..
Joe Romano
January 15, 2005
Always a BIG Jefferson Airplane fan. We celebrate your life Spence.
Walk with God and smile on all of us who love you.
Peter B
January 15, 2005
Fare thee well, fare thee well, we love you more than words can tell.
Spencer, you represent one of my very few "brushes with greatness". A signpost on my life's journey. I am grateful to have met you.
God's speed!
Say Hi to Jerry for me!
Bruce Allen
January 15, 2005
Thank you so much Spencer. I loved the Jefferson Airplane in my youth and I love its music to this day. I still have all my Airplane lps.
I had the memorable experience of meeting Paul Kantner in Toronto in 1994 and told him what I would tell you. The Airplane was an inspiration to this product of the youth radicalization of the late 1960s and one time Yippie!
Ride Jefferson Airplane. It gets you there on time.
Theresa Connolly
January 14, 2005
I can't beleive your not here , I grew up listening to you , I know heaven is rocking tonight . you were the highlight of my youth , I will miss you .
Tom Allen
January 14, 2005
Well my friend, I have found you again after years apart. Wow, Jeffrey was a toddler and things in Marin were looking up. New George's and some great gigs...The Dinosaurs were formed and enjoyed by many...although in the end too few. I was in Petaluma last week and wish I had known where you were. I should have looked harder but I figured we would run into each other somewhere soon. Goodbye Spencer, I'll see you in a dream...Tom
PATRICIA CHANDLER-FRIEND
January 14, 2005
TO THE DRYDEN FAMILY, PLEASE TAKE FAITH IN THE FACT THAT SPENCER IS IN GODS HANDS. PLUS THE FACT THAT THAT'S GOT TO BE 1 FANTASTIC BAND. I KNOW GOD LOVES ROCK AND ROLL. HE HAS TO GOOD HOW MANY GREATS HE CREATED. FROM ONE OLD ROCKER TO ANOTHER GO REST HIGH ON THAT MOUNTAIN.
Mark Lafferty
January 14, 2005
WoW! Life is short. Your group made great music that I still listen to today. All of the fans of STARSHIP will miss you. Especially myself.
Cindy Riley
January 14, 2005
Thanks for all the great music. God bless you and your family
Debbie
January 14, 2005
My thoughts & prayers are with you, your family and friends. I am a youngster but I have older siblings. We all enjoyed the music and will continue to do so through time. Thanks. God Bless.
ROSEANNE SCOTT
January 14, 2005
OUR PRAYERS WITH YOU. REST IN PEACE
Jim Davenport
January 14, 2005
Thanks for the chat at The Saloon, a memory I will cherish, and all the great feelings and vibes. Peace.
Benny Barrett
January 14, 2005
We are grateful to have had Spencer's talent to enjoy. Our prayers are with his precious family. Heaven is made more desirous knowing he is there.
Charley Lee
January 14, 2005
No more pain, no more sufferin'
Gone back home, do some drummin'
My thoughts are with your family. Thanks for all the great music. We'll always have the music to listen to and enjoy.
terrance mcgonegal
January 14, 2005
so sorry about spencer his music lives on and he with it...
David Sullivan
January 14, 2005
What's death like? Go ask Alice, I think she'll know. Lead the way, Drummer Man.
Johnny Fever
January 14, 2005
The beat goes on...
Jammin with Papa John and Jerry! SCHWEEEEEET!!
paul sereika
January 14, 2005
Rock on drummer man. Tell Buddie, Kieth, John,and all the rest Hello from me and I hope to jam with you all one day
Pat Canfield
January 14, 2005
Thanks for the fantastic music and the joy we all shared while listening to it. You'll be missed by this old gal!
patricia herigstad
January 13, 2005
I GREW UP WITH YOUR MUSIC. YOUR MUSIC WILL FOREVER PLAY IN MY HEART
Gail Gladue
January 13, 2005
Just a fan of Jefferson Airplane! You will be missed! God Speed!
Beverly Wofford
January 13, 2005
God bless the family and friends
Anita Casarez-Silva
January 13, 2005
Now your in Gods band. He has the best players of all. Our condolences to your family and friends, for a great person was lost.
Chasity Vosburgh
January 13, 2005
Me and my family love you....
Robert Watkins
January 13, 2005
God Bless the family.
Dan Dugan
January 13, 2005
"Go as Alice . . ."
Helene Schmidt
January 13, 2005
It seems like only yesterday that we were all rocking along with you and Grace Slick and all the rest of the great players in your band.
"White Rabbit," "Embroynic Journey" and "Somebody To Love" have to rank up there with the BEST of the BEST Psychedelic Music Classics of the late 60's and early 70s.
Thank you for some of the very best music that accompanied the best times of our loves and lives, yet it was the worst of times too. Your great drumming helped us get through it.
THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC!
LOVED YOU GUYS!
JEFFERSON AIRPLANE
Jefferson Airplane's debut show was on August 13, 1965 at the Matrix nightclub in San Francisco. The first performance featured Marty Balin on vocals, Paul Kantner on vocals/rhythm guitar, and Jorma Kaukonen on lead guitar. Signe Anderson, (who sang on Jefferson Airplane's first recording "Jefferson Airplane Takes Off'') also performed. The bass player, Jack Casady and drummer Skip Spence, (who was later one of the original members of Moby Grape) joined the band two months later. Spencer Dryden became the drummer in June of 1966 and Grace Slick joined as vocalist in October of 1966. The band performed the first concert for Bill Graham at the legendary Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco in February of 1966.
Jefferson Airplane performed at the Berkeley Folk Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, Monterey Pop Festival, Woodstock, and Altamont. They had hit singles White Rabbit and Somebody to Love, from the album "Surrealistic Pillow". They were on the cover of Life Magazine in 1968. The band co- headlined with the Doors in Europe in the summer of 1968. Many legendary bands opened for the Airplane: Grateful Dead, Santana, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who, Janis Joplin, Steve Miller, and many others.
_ From the Band's Official Web Site for those too young to remember and those of us who never forgot!
ROCK ON,FOREVER!
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