Dino Danelli, rock-star drummer for The Rascals, has died.
The first great rock-star drummer, Dino Danelli, of The Rascals, 78, has died. Before Ginger Baker, before Keith Moon, Dino Danelli brought a jazzman’s chops to his wild and entertaining rock’n’soul style that propelled The Young Rascals (as they were originally known) out of Garfield’s Choo Choo Club to international stardom. His was a physical and all-encompassing style. You couldn’t take your eyes off him. Standing up, twirling his sticks, throwing them up in the air and catching them without missing a beat, Danelli set the standard for all rock drummers in his wake.
Rascal lead guitarist Gene Cornish: “It is with broken heart that I must tell you of the passing of Dino Danelli. He was my brother and the greatest drummer I’ve ever seen. I am devastated at this moment. Rest in peace, Dino. I love you, brother.”
Stevie Van Zandt, who produced the band’s “Once Upon A Dream” Broadway run, told the Asbury Park Press in 2013, “they were amazing. They were absolutely amazing, and it was one of the most inspiring performances of my life.” He’s speaking of the first time he witnessed The Young Rascals at The Keyport Roller Dome in 1965. “It stayed with us, half rock, half soul, so we trace our roots very much to them.”
Band spokesman Joe Russo issued the following statement: “Our beloved Dino passed away today. I will say more in the near future about his incredible talent and share experiences from his life he relayed to me, as well as ones we spent as friends and collaborators. I hope you will all continue to appreciate his talent and send him your love. Thank you for supporting his various endeavors throughout his career. You all made it possible for him to live his dream, which was to be a musician and artist. Blessings to you all.”
Born in Jersey City, Danelli had already played in the band of jazz legend Lionel Hampton and by 1961 was drumming in New Orleans funk bands. After being a member of Joey Dee & The Starliters, he formed The Young Rascals with singer Eddie Brigati, pianist Felix Cavaliere and guitarist Cornish for a string of ‘60s hits that sound as vital today as when they were first released.