Dale Griffin, the drummer for British glam-rock stalwarts Mott the Hoople, has died aged 67.
Peter Purnell of Mott’s label Angel Air Records told the BBC that Griffin died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, Jan, 17. He had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease a decade ago.
Mott the Hoople were an English rock band with strong R&B roots, were popular in the glam rock era of the early to mid-1970s. The band’s name was taken from a 1966 novel by Willard Manus.
Peter Purnell of Mott’s label Angel Air Records told the BBC that Griffin died Sunday, Jan. 17. He had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease a decade ago.
Peter told BBC that Griffin was “one of the nicest, friendly and talented men I have ever known.”
Dale Griffin was a founding member of the group. Their most enduring hit, All the Young Dudes, was penned by David Bowie in 1972, as Bowie had a particular fondness for the band. The group’s famous songs also included “All the Way From Memphis” and “Roll Away the Stone.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfwVfEXJhQQ
Mott The Hoople split by the mid-’70s and Griffin later worked as a producer for BBC live music sessions.
Dale Griffin was born October 24, 1948, died January 17, 2016.
Rest in Peace, Dale Griffin!