Dino Danelli, drummer for the Young Rascals, passed away on Thursday, December 15 at the age of 78. Danelli has been described as “one of the best underrated rock drummers of all time”. Danelli’s bandmates broke the news on social media by uploading a photo of him and writing that people have learned a lot from his experience in the music industry. According to the message:
“I hope you all continue to admire his prowess and show him your love. Thank you for your continued support to his various activities throughout his career. You all made it possible for him to pursue his ambition to become a musician and artist. Joe Russo wishes you all the best.”
Dino Danelli’s cause of death has not been disclosed and funeral arrangements have not been made.
Twitter users pay tribute to Dino Danelli.
Dino Danelli has gathered quite a fan base over the years due to his skill as a drummer. As news of his death spread, Twitter was flooded with tributes:
RIP Dino Danelli. https://t.co/chH3kgm0lg
— Clem Burke (@clem_burke) December 16, 2022
I am so sad to hear that the great Dino Danelli passed away. A brilliant drummer and recording artist. I will never forget all the happy moments we spent on Broadway performing our Rascals show. An original disciple. An original period. 💔
— Maureen Van Zandt (@MVZaGoGo) December 15, 2022
Dino Danelli rose to prominence as a member of The Young Rascals.
Danelli began his career with the formation of The Young Rascals in 1964. The quintet debuted in a New Jersey nightclub. The Young Rascals were known for songs like Good Lovin’, Groovin’, People Gotta Be Free, How Can I Be Sure, A Beautiful Morning and others. In March 1966, the rock band’s self-titled first album debuted at the top of the Billboard charts. They released eight more albums before breaking up in 1972. Although Eddie Brigati and Gene Cornish last appeared on their seventh album, Search and Nearness, their next two albums received positive critical and financial response. The group’s remarkable journey lasted until one of its members, David Brigati, announced his departure in 1970.
The band signed with Columbia Records in 1971, and although they released two albums, they failed to receive much critical acclaim compared to their earlier offerings. Over the years, the band members changed constantly and the founders soon began to pursue a solo career in the music business. Dino Danelli, Felix Cavaliere, Eddie Brigati, Gene Cornish, David Brigati, Robert Popwell and Danny Weis were among the prominent cast members. The ensemble reformed in April 2010 for an event in New York, followed by two more in 2012 and 2013.
Danelli formed another band, Bulldog, when The Young Rascals broke up in the 1970s. However, the group did not last more than three years. Danelli has performed with bands such as Fotomaker, Little Steven & The Disciples of Soul and others besides The Young Rascals and Bulldog. Danelli is survived by relatives whose identities have not been revealed. In all these years, Danelli never talked about his personal life.
