The original drummer of the legendary rock band The Bee Gees has passed away at the age of 78 years old. Colin Petersen’s passing was announced via a post on Facebook yesterday, November 18. The announcement was made by his band, Best Of The Bee Gees.

“It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen,” the post read. “He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship.”

The post was accompanied by an image of Petersen and his trademark smile at the helm of a drum kit. No cause of death was provided.

Remembering Colin Petersen and His Legacy as an Original Bee Gee

Colin Petersen was The Bee Gee’s very first drummer, and his work can be heard on some of the band’s earliest hit songs.