Jerry “JI” Allison — drummer for Buddy Holly and the Crickets, in addition to a co-writer on among the group’s largest songs — has died. He was 82.
The information was posted to Buddy Holly’s Facebook page on Monday.
“JI was a musician forward of his time, and undoubtedly his power, concepts and distinctive ability contributed to each The Crickets, and rock n’ roll itself, changing into so successful,” the announcement learn.
“Buddy is commonly heralded as the unique singer-songwriter, however JI, too, wrote and impressed so lots of the songs that will go on to be everlasting classics.”
“There’s extra to be stated and posted right here within the coming days. For immediately, we take into consideration his household and associates and need JI to relaxation in peace,” the assertion closed.
No reason behind demise was listed within the announcement.
Born in 1939, Allison and Holly met within the Fifties and began taking part in music as a duo. In 1957, the pair met bassist Joe B. Mauldin and fashioned the Crickets — who would go on to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Corridor of Fame in 2012.
Along with taking part in drums, Allison is credited with co-writing among the acts’ largest hits, together with their debut single, “That’ll Be the Day,” and Holly’s classics “Peggy Sue” and “Extra Than I Can Say.”
Holly died in a aircraft crash in 1959, however the Crickets continued to make music, even collaborating with Paul McCartney on their 1988 single “T Shirt.”
Allison additionally grew to become a preferred studio musician and labored with J.J. Cale and Johnny Rivers.
