Alan White Shocking Cause of Death: John Lennon's Drummer Dead at 72

Alan White, Yes and John Lennon's drummer, has died. He was 72.

White, who became part of Yes for 50 years since 1972, tragically cut his career with them following his death.

His family shared a statement on his Facebook page, saying that Alan White's cause of death was due to a brief illness.

"Throughout his life and six-decade career, Alan was many things to many people: a certified rock star to fans around the world; bandmate to a select few, and gentleman and friend to all who met him," the statement said.

Yes also shared the news on its Twitter account.

Although he dedicated more than half of his life to playing with the progressive rock band, White also took the spotlight by performing with the late The Beatles member, Johnny Lennon, in the Plastic Ono Band.

He and Lennon worked together in the band's "Imagine" and "Instant Karma."

White also worked with George Harrison on "All Things Must Pass."

Fans and family friends left heartfelt comments on the Facebook post, sending virtual hugs to White's bereaved family.

Alan White's Life Had Been a Fruitful One

The drummer fell in love with the instrument when he was a child. The Pelton native also spent his time playing as a member of several bands in the 1960s.

In 1968, he formally joined Ginger Baker's Air Force. Only a year later, Lennon invited him to join the Plastic Ono Band, allowing him to be featured on several songs and the album, "Live Peace in Toronto 1969."

After Bill Bruford left Yes in 1972, White immediately filled his space and began touring with them through their album, "Close to the Edge." He became a permanent member of the band after learning their music in three days.

From there, White famously played all Yes' hits, including "Owner of a Lonely Heart," "Changes," and "Love Will Find a Way."

Amid his popularity with the band, he released his first and only solo album, "Ramshackled," in 1976.

When Yes broke up, he and the band's founding bassist Chris Squire gave birth to a project with Jimmy Page - the XYZ.

White became the longest-serving member of Yes band after Squire's death in 2015. He led the band to its 2017 induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside frontman Jon Anderson.

Alan White's death was unexpected, as Yes tapped him to join the band's 50th anniversary tour. After his passing, the concert will be now dedicated to him.