Jefferson Starship Veteran Drummer John Barbata Dead at 79

Veteran drummer John Barbata, who played with several bands throughout his career, has died. He was 79.

Jefferson Starship, the band Barbata played in during the 1970s, confirmed the news in a Facebook update.

"We are saddened to hear of the passing of the great John Barbata, Jefferson Starship's original drummer. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans. Rock in peace, Johnny!" the post read.

Barbata reportedly died on May 8, per Best Classic Bands. No cause of death has been disclosed as of press time.

Meanwhile, Jefferson Airplane released a separate Facebook statement to pay tribute to their late member and honor his contribution.

"Known for his exceptional talent, John left his mark on the music world by playing with bands such as The Turtles, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Jefferson Airplane, and Jefferson Starship. Back in '72, during a hiatus for CSN&Y, David Crosby introduced John to the Airplane, who hired him instantly," the band shared. "You can hear John's drumming skills on the band's final studio album, Long Live John Silver, as well as the live album Thirty Seconds Over Winterland."

Fans, meanwhile, lefty heartfelt comments under the post to express their love for the session drummer.

"He was an outstanding drummer and added great percussion to the Jefferson Airplane, and anybody else that he played with, may he Rest In Peace," one said, while a second wrote, "My condolences to the family and friends May the four winds blow him safely home to that drum kit in the sky."

Barbata's family has not released a statement regarding his passing. Details regarding the funeral and memorial remain unknown to the public.

Barbata joined his first band, the Velvatones, when he was 16 after his family relocated to Rialto, Calif. He soon formed another band, the Ambassadors, before his stint with the Sentinals.

After the latter band's split, Barbata expanded his career and moved to Hollywood. He became The Turtles' drummer in 1966, the same year he recorded his first song with the band, "Happy Together."

Barbata was involved in a car accident in 1978 that left him with a broken neck, arm and jaw. He stepped away from the spotlight and spent the rest of his life with his family in Ada, Calf.