The drummer for Dead Kennedys, DH Peligro, has died at the age of 63.
The musician, born Darren Henley, died shortly after hitting his head in a fall at his home in Los Angeles on Friday, and his death was confirmed on Saturday.
After his brief tenure with the Red Hot Chilli Peppers in 1988, he joined The Dead Kennedys, who announced his passing online: “Dead Kennedys drummer D.H. Yesterday, October 28th, Peligro (Darren Henley) passed away in his Los Angeles home.
“He died due to brain damage sustained in a fall accident.” Plans are pending and will be announced within the next several days.
“Thank you for your comforting thoughts and words.”
Henley replaced the founding drummer of The Dead Kennedys in 1981 and remained with the band until its dissolution in 1986 before succeeding drummer Jack Irons in the Red Hot Chili Peppers two years later.
He penned songs for the group’s fourth album, “Mother’s Milk,” but did not participate on it. He was sacked in November 1988 and replaced by the group’s current drummer, Chad Smith.
Henley also performed with The Hellations, Jungle Studs, Nailbomb, The Feederz, Lock-Up, The Two Free Stooges, Reverend Jones, and SSI, as well as fronting his own band Peligro, with whom he released three albums.
Flea, bassist for the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, said on Instagram under a black-and-white photo of Don Henley, “My dear buddy, my brother, I miss you so badly. I’m heartbroken and crying rivers of tears today, but I will cherish every moment for the rest of my life.
“When I first saw you play with the DKs in 1981, you completely blew my mind. The strength, the spirit, and the recklessness.
“You have become my dearest buddy on so many occasions of every kind. We had so much pleasure and happiness while we had each other’s backs.
“I adore you with my whole heart. You are the most authentic rocker and an integral component of Red Hot Chilli Peppers (rhcp) history.
“DHP in the place to be, you will live eternally in our hearts, you crazy man, you joy-bringer, you man with a giant’s heart. I will always honour you. Rest in Peace and be liberated from all constraints.”