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BORN
1959
DIED
2015
A.J. Pero Obituary
The band said Anthony Jude Pero died of an apparent heart attack while touring with Adrenaline Mob, a group with which he played in between engagements with Twisted Sister.
Twisted Sister guitarist Jay Jay French said Pero was on a tour bus Friday morning when Adrenaline Mob band members tried unsuccessfully to awaken him, then called an ambulance. He was taken to a hospital in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he was declared dead shortly after 11 a.m.
"His drive was the heart and soul of the band's sound, the engine that drove us," French said. "We lost a friend and a legend."
Twisted Sister singer Dee Snider called Pero "the final piece in a band that would become an international sensation and one of the greatest live rock acts to ever hit the stage."
"His sledgehammer assault on the drums helped drive Twisted Sister and I to greatness, and inspired me to rock every single show," Snider said. "My heart breaks knowing I will never feel the power of his beat behind me, or turn to see his face smiling broadly from the sheer joy he got from doing what he loved."
Pero was well-known for a scene in the video for 1984's "We're Not Gonna Take It" in which he struck a snare drum covered with glitter, sending it spraying into the air.
He joined Twisted Sister in 1982, right before the Long Island bar band exploded onto the burgeoning heavy metal scene after nearly a decade of slogging through small clubs. Wearing makeup and glam costumes, the highly visual band was a perfect match for the fledgling MTV video network and become one of its mainstays with hits that included "I Wanna Rock."
French said the band will soon consider what to do about its six upcoming summer tour dates.
WAYNE PARRY, Associated Press
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
96 Entries
Dado
August 14, 2023
Ciao
Vinny Lobritto
December 2, 2021
Was just looking at an old picture of the blue vistalites from NDHS back from the Pi days, and thought I'd give a shout out. RIP my friend, Stay hungry.
Adrian Dowdle
March 9, 2018
Aj you were the greatest drummer ever in twisted sister you'll be greatly missed r.I.p my friend
How you can show support
Uncle Joe n Cousin "Big' Anthony
Anthony Pero
August 28, 2016
Hey Little Anthony, We are so sorry that you have left us so soon. I always loved your smile and that krinkle on your nose. I always loved that picture of you standing above the two sets of drums when you were younger. I will always remember your first red snare drum that you gave me. I will always remember you as that fun guy and great drummer! Aunt Bea and uncle Gene were always proud of you. Love Cousin Big Anthony
Jo Ann Zahra
March 30, 2015
So sad. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He was a really great guy and will be greatly missed.
Richie Grohs
March 29, 2015
The Music was a big part of my life Growing up.He was a Rock Soldier and Much Greater drummer than we Knew.There is a hole in my heart.
March 29, 2015
You will never be forgotten!
Rest in peace my friend.
Squiddzzz
Jana
March 27, 2015
I met A.J. in 1985 in Long Beach,Ca, while Twisted was on tour with Iron Maiden. I was 19 yrs old. A.J. got me and my friend backstage, and again in San Diego. He was the BIGGEST SWEETHEART! We spoke a few more times after that, and hung out in Hollywood together. He had a heart of gold <3 My heart is broken for his family, friend's and band mates. May you rest in peace dear friend. Thanks for the fun times. Until I see you again.
Rodney
March 27, 2015
I was twelve years old when I saw Twisted Sister it was my very first concert. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. R.I.P. AJ, I will never forget you.
Lani Vasquez
March 26, 2015
I have been blessed and fortunate to have watched Twisted Sister and AJ on drums several times even though I live on the west coast. I have followed TS for more than 30 years and my love for the band grew more and more as I grew up. My heart's broken with AJ"s passing. To AJ's family, bandmates and friends, please find solace in the fact that though you don't know us all, we love AJ so much, it hurts a lot. But the Lord is good, He will welcome AJ to His paradise. He will heal the unspeakable pain of his loss. To Dee, Mark, Eddie, Jay Jay, my deepest sympathy. AJ will always be in our hearts forever and will never be forgotten. An angel went home too soon. I love you all!
AJ, Dee, Eddie, Mark and Jay Jay - five of the sweetest guys I ever knew
Heidi Holicker
March 26, 2015
Your smile and playfulness will always stay with me. I am honored I got to know you in the '80's during the TS video, and 7 years ago when TS came to L.A. for a week. You remained humble, kind and silly always. My heart is full of love for your family, and Jay Jay, Eddie, Mark and Dee's families. You will stay in my heart forever. I miss you.
March 25, 2015
Gone too soon. I hope to meet him in Paradise.
March 25, 2015
Sympathies go out to A.J's family and friends for your most recent loss. May you look at the future, as it is filled with hope from God, that one day those who have fallen asleep in death, will hear his voice and rise up. John 5:25
Tami Herbst
March 25, 2015
You cant stop rock n roll, play on AJ play on!
Lauren Bernal
March 25, 2015
Todayday is truly a sad day, to say goodbye to a legend Aj Pero an old friend from many years ago, I'll be at the wake tonight to say my goodbyes and pay my respect, My condolence to AJ Pero's family Now he rocks with the angels in heaven, You will never be forgotten RIP
Barbara Shaughnessy
March 25, 2015
Dear Pero Family, I have watched AJ play for so many years that I have lost count. He was a wonderful person and an amazing, powerhouse of a drummer. Such a sad loss for his family, his children and his band mates. Take comfort in knowing he was doing what he loved and he will always be remembered. Always.
Sincerest condolences, Barbara Shaughnessy (NY/NJ)
With AJ Bikers for Babies 2013
Terry Knight
March 25, 2015
A sweet and talented soul. He will be missed by so many. Deepest Condolences to his family and friends and all that loved him. I first met him at a Bikers for Babies event as a volunteer. A memorable man and phenomenal drummer. xo
Mary Rose Pero Giacometti
March 25, 2015
Our sincere condolence to the Pero Family.
Sincerely,
The Pero family from Old Forge, PA
Nadine
March 25, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the Pero Family for your great loss. There isn't a memory growing up that doesn't include A.J. We are all better people for having the pleasure of A.J. touch our lives. The sheer joy of watching him rock is unexplainable and forever in my heart. Taken much too young but truly a life well lived. Icon Status!
Forever,
Nadine
joanne LaRocca-Scalici
March 25, 2015
Dear Pero Family, So sorry to hear about the passing of Anthony. We have fond memories of him from SJHA talent shows where our brother Frankie LaRocka and Anthony would do their drum solos...it was always amazing. Heaven has another talented drummer!Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.Sincerely, Paul and Joanne LaRocca
Glenn Mckeown
March 25, 2015
My thoughts and prayers go out to A.J. PERO,His Family and Friends. A true legend not only with your amazing drumming but also your wonderful charity work.MAY GOD BLESS YOU and YOUR LOVED ONES. Thanks for the memories.
March 24, 2015
I`m so sorry Pero family, and Band members. Supported AJ`s work almost 35 years, had the chance to meet him 2008 N.Y.C. Christmas show! To quote Jay Jay, he made you feel like you were a forever friend!! Jay Jay is CORRECT! Thank You to the Band for all the good times, and a chance to see talent like AJ and yourselves!!! Love, Dave. (UNDER THE STAGE)
Dave Rogers
March 24, 2015
RIP A.J. Till we meet again....
Nikki Wittelsohn
March 24, 2015
You rocked our world aj. You were one of the nicest, funniest hardest rockin person ive ever known. You will be forever missed and forever remembered. You were there for your family, your friends and your fans. You were one of a kind aj. Rest in peace my friend
tami senkowski
March 24, 2015
What a loss to all who knew him!
Mark Monahan
March 24, 2015
My condolences to A.J.'s family, Twisted Sister band mates and all his fans across the world- We have lost a legend and a great person and drummer. His playing will live on and is immortal; you really FELT him when you listened on the radio and watched on TV or live and his playing left on imprint on you. His drum intro on " We're Not Gonna Take It ", is one of the most iconic and memorable in the history of rock music. RIP A.J. Pero you will never be forgotten.
Judith Huff
March 24, 2015
God Bless you A.J. You will sadly be missed, prayer for you and all Family and Friends .
Maddy
March 24, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the family of AJ and to the Twisted family, he will be truly missed. I have known AJ for over 30 years and this is a complete blow. Rock heaven truly got a drumming angel! RIP xoxox
huw griffith
March 24, 2015
So sad. The best. The most exciting. The most passionate. The most committed. RIP AJ x
Joyce Kolocotrones
March 24, 2015
May God watch you & keep you A.J, You will be missed! Love you babe! Keep rocking! xoxo
Joyce Kolocotrones
March 24, 2015
Im truly sorry 4 the loss of an anmazing drummer & such a wonderful humble beautiful man. ;( I grew up w Twisted Sister b4 the 1st record...video..or song was released on the radio. The FABULOUS times i shared w them @ Hammerheads were some of the BEST times of my life! Still have my SMMFOTS shirt! Even "dated" 1 of the members..who shall remain nameless...but LOVED them all dearly! Shoot Em Down & The Price my faves. you'll b missed A.J! Rest in peace darling. xoxo Joyce
Newman
March 23, 2015
My all time favorite drummer .peace to you and your family
John Blade
March 23, 2015
Rest in peace A.J
Stefan Stultiens
March 23, 2015
My condolences to the family and Twisted Sister. May you drum among the rock gods in Heaven. i will never forget the times i saw you play at Graspop never. may you rest and rock in peace.
A Graspop Fan
Donna Lucci
March 23, 2015
Tony you will be very missed. You were the nicest guy around, so down to earth and kind. I remember you playing on the Island when we were in our teens. Heaven now has one more angel. My deepest sympathy to your wife and children.
March 23, 2015
So sorry for the loss of your loved one,may God grant you peace......
Antone Faglio-Falcone
March 23, 2015
My condolences the family. Tony you we be missed. I remember our high school days and hanging out by the Ice cream parlor. Thank you for being my friend.Thank you for the prom, it meant so much to me. May you rest in peace my friend.Love, Antone
Richard MacDonald
March 23, 2015
A.J. you were one of the best drummers, and a person, I have ever met in this genre. Your kind words meant a lot several years back in Georgia. You will be missed mate. My deepest condolences to your family, bandmates, friends, and all who knew and loved you. Richard K. MacDonald, Jr.
Becky
March 22, 2015
RIP AJ, time to rock the heavens!
March 22, 2015
Tony inspired me to play when we were 15 ,actually my first friend on staten island . A great player then at 15 !!! A great player now n forever .Louise very sorry for your loss . I still have your brothers snare drum that we traded when we were 16 . All my love , God Bless , J Palumbo
Michael Cooper
March 22, 2015
Loved every time I saw Twisted. Aj pounding drums were a big reason I wanted to learn.
Best wishes to his family and twisted brothers.
julie zanotti
March 22, 2015
I will miss your music, Rock and Roll Heaven is waiting for you, Such fond memories
julie zanotti
March 22, 2015
In rock and roll beaven for sure, I will miss your amazing music, a loyal fan forever
Jamie Tuttle
March 22, 2015
I am saddened with grief and despair whenever I hear that someone so full of exuberance and with a lifetime dedication to some form of the performing arts has tragically departed this life at such a dismayingly young age.
Twisted Sister's music was a significant facet of my youth while growing up in the 1980s and, as a devotee, can only express my profound compassion to the family, friends and admirers of Mr. A.J. Pero.
Requiescat in pace.
David Tee Band
March 22, 2015
We will never forget AJ playing w/ us,The David Tee Band "The Pioneer Speciality Singer of Rock Tributes"when Twisted was already broken up. Everytime I met AJ backstage or hanging out, he always said to me,"David I still have your Frank Sinatra pen w/ your name on it". Recently I gave him a new pen at Randy Rhoads tribute concert last Yr. I told him, "the night Randy died, Dee announed it, & Twisted did a few Ozzy songs in a row".It's something to remember, AJ passes one day after Randy's death date of March 19th. As I met AJ's son, I hope he would carry on drumming, as John Bonham's son did, & carry on the torch in Twisted. ...as this might be the only continuation that the fan's would accept, to keep the tradition going. As a Rudimental Drummer myself, I loved AJ's style. I will miss AJ.
mike & lisa DeRitter
March 22, 2015
sending prayers out to the family & friends & to the band Twisted Sister. A.J. R.I.P. WE WILL MISS YOU.
Hurricane Sandy Benefit with Make a Wish recipient
Kelly Platt
March 22, 2015
!986 In London England at the MTV Twisted Invasion
Kelly LaPietra
March 22, 2015
AJ, We met when I was only 16 when I interned at WBAB Radio, then in 1986 We met up again when I won the MTV Twisted Invasion with Twisted Sister in London England.
To be friends with you for over 30 years was a blessing. You will be missed by everyone.
Thank you for your Friendship.
My condolences go out to your family and Bandmates, Dee, Jay Jay, Mark.
Rest in Peace AJ.
Harry Simpson
March 22, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Henrik Hansen
March 22, 2015
Your work on earth is now done.
Take your place among the stars.
So sad to hear of your passing. Growing up I never missed a Twisted Sister show here in SLC. RIP Mr. Pero
Mark Ramsey
March 22, 2015
God Bless You A.J. You were A class act through and through. Thanks for the memories. Your music will live on! Rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers to A.J.'s Family and Friends. We will miss You.
Theresa Morris
March 21, 2015
Sending love comfort & prayers to you all draw close to each other rest in each other. It doesn't make sense it isn't alright but your going to be ok. Because! He remains close to you. Warmly
March 21, 2015
My condolences to the family. May God bless the family during their time of sorrow.
Mercy R.
March 21, 2015
My condolences to the family. May God grant you strength, as you reflect on His promise to do away with sickness and death (Isaiah 33;24 & 25:8).
Francis Cressey
March 21, 2015
I loved Twisted Sister and will miss the music he played . RIP Brother .I know that you are in heaven now rocking out . Frank Cressey Sacramento ca
Kathy Price
March 21, 2015
Our condolence goes out to the family. Good needed a great drummer up there. RIP AJ
Jamie Cerda
March 21, 2015
He was the best drummer in the best band in the world your going to be missed R.I.P
D Sheare
March 21, 2015
My condolences to the family and friends of A.J. he will be sorely missed.God Bless you all.
March 21, 2015
I grew up on your music. Thank you for giving yourself to make the fans happy. Rock on in Heaven.
March 21, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Dave Hicks
March 21, 2015
R.I.P. A.J. God Bless
E Brewee
March 21, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
B Lucas
March 21, 2015
Here's hoping all who knew A.J. finds a happy thought that brings back good memories. Loss is never easy, it can be a time of reflection on our life course. May family and friends find peace in their comfort of each other. My sincere condolence.
Izetta Williams
March 21, 2015
My deepest sympathy to family and friends of AJ Pero. Let us continue to pray for God's Kingdom that will eliminate sickness that leads to. death. Matthew 6:10
2 Corinthians 1:3, 4
March 21, 2015
I'm sorry for your loss. May "the God of all comfort" provide your family with the needed strength to endure as you mourn for your loss.
TRIAD / MC
David J Bhaltazhar Esq
March 21, 2015
Farewell
Dave Hicks
March 21, 2015
R.I.P. A.J. God Bless
mike m
March 21, 2015
I had the honor of playing gigs with tony back in his 'garage band' days ... i am in shock .. a great drummer & an ever greater person ... rip my friend ...
Rose Paolillo
March 21, 2015
RIP A.J. Rock On Friend!
yo
March 21, 2015
I listen to Twisted Sister in my teenage years ..thank for All Music
and memories.,,please except our heartfelt saddest to and for all those who love him,,
Janine
March 21, 2015
Bless the family of this talented young man !
Thank you for your awesome music
You wlll be forever missed
R. I.P !
Pete Da Rocker
March 20, 2015
Sad to hear about the loss of such a great and respected Drummer. R.I.P. AJ, you are loved by millions of Metal fans. Keep em' Rockin' in Heaven Bro. It's the 'Price' we all must pay, but way too soon in your case. God bless you and take care of you and your Family.
March 20, 2015
May the all wise and knowing Father of peace grant your family a calm heart.
M.H. Baltimore
michelle plakas-kaiser
March 20, 2015
rip
Terri
March 20, 2015
Sorry to hear about A.J he will be missed ACT 24:15 talks about the resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous
Robyn
March 20, 2015
My condolences to the family, friends & fans of A.J.. May the God of all comfort provide during this difficult time.
MarieAnn Messina
March 20, 2015
Tony my friend it was always a joy to listen to you,the world is at a loss without your musicI know you since we were 15 from school and just growing up..There was never a time when I didn't share stories of our teenage antic's and have only good memories.I was always proud of you To all the toyota drive by's to the country club ice-cream parlor nights and the kids from exit 15Rock the heavens ..love MarieAnn
cheyenne
March 20, 2015
bang those drums full of glitter-rock on
March 20, 2015
thanks for the great music-jill
Leanna
March 20, 2015
Rest in peace Aj you will be missed you were a great drummer now your in heaven with Dio
G. Freeman
March 20, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 20, 2015
Thanks for the music
March 20, 2015
Condolences to the Pero family. May God
bless you and your family at this
difficult time.
silver white
March 20, 2015
Thank you for your contribution to music,rock and metal! You will be remembered! R.I.P Brother!
Robert Anglin
March 20, 2015
Man, I grew up listening to Twisted Sister in my teens and got the chance to meet him a couple years ago when they came to town. What a great guy. Thoughts go out to his family, friends, and crew. He will be missed..... God bless you buddy!
RIP MY ROCK BROTHER!
March 20, 2015
sad news and hits close to home, since i survived a heart attack myself.Sending warm wishes and prayers to AJ's family, his brothers in TS, and his many fans who will always remember ...
Scott Chamberland
March 20, 2015
Rest in Peace
bob valia
March 20, 2015
May you rest in peace.a great drummer and a real nice guy
BILL WOODLY
March 20, 2015
AND THE BEAT GOES ON AND THE BEAT GOES ON
Barbara Krepps
March 20, 2015
What a great drummer loved watching him. My you rest in peace .
Phil Maas
March 20, 2015
Devastated to say the least. Condolences to the family. Rest In Peace AJ! You will be truly missed!
Kimberly Machacek
March 20, 2015
Fly high with the angels and continue playing your drums in Heaven
Stacy
March 20, 2015
Truly heartfelt condolences to family and loved ones. May the God of all comfort be with you.
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