Spencer Dryden, who was a drummer for the legendary rock band Jefferson Airplane died Tuesday in Petaluma, CA. The 66 year old performer retired about 10 years ago. He was born in New York City, then moved with his parents to Los Angeles.
He went from working at a Hollywood strip club, The Pink Pussycat to The Jefferson Airplane, then to New Riders of the Purple Sage, followed by a group of psychedelic rock veterans called the Dinosaurs. He also jammed informally with others.
US$36,000 was raised for him last year at a benefit concert featuring Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead and Warren Haynes of Gov't Mule. He was then being treated for multiple illnesses including heart disease, stomach cancer and hip problems.
