John Hartman was the founding drummer for the Doobie Brothers, who played on hits including “Black Water” and “Listen to the Music.”
- Died: December 29, 2021 (Who else died on December 29?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 72.
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Doobie Brothers
Hartman began playing music with singer and guitarist Tom Johnston in 1969 in San Jose, California. They gathered more members, and by 1970, they had named themselves the Doobie Brothers and were performing throughout northern California. In 1971, Hartman became co-drummer as a second drummer, Michael Hossack (1946–2012), was added to the lineup. They scored their first hit single in 1972 with “Listen to the Music.” Hartman remained with the Doobie Brothers through 1979, drumming on popular songs including “Jesus Is Just Alright,” “China Grove,” “Takin’ it to the Streets,” and the No. 1 hit “Black Water.” After leaving the band in 1979, Hartman returned in 1989, playing on their albums “Cycles” and “Brotherhood” before retiring again in 1992. In 2020, Hartman and eight other longtime members of the Doobie Brothers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Tributes to John Hartman
Full obituary: People
