Yes, drummer also “certified rock star” Alan White died at 72 after a brief illness

“Throughout his life and sixty years of career, Allen has been a man to many,” the Whites wrote in a social media post confirming the news.

Alan White, a musician, good known for his work as a drummer for the rock band Yes, has death at the age of 72.

White’s family final he had died Thursday at his “home in Seattle after a brief illness” in a lengthy social media post that honors his legacy.

“Throughout his life and sixty-year career, Allen has been a great deal to many. A certified rock star to fans worldwide, a select few partners. And a man and friend to all who knew him,” the publication began.

On June 14, 1949, White was born in Pelton, Durham, England.

During the 1960s, White played with several bands, including The Downbeats. The Gamblers, Billy Fury, Alan Price Big Band, Bell and Arc, and others. Then, in 1968, Allen joined the Ginger Baker Air Force. But it wasn’t until 1969 that White received a reputation for life.

“He received a call he thought was a joke at the time. But John Lennon called to ask Allen to join the Plastic Ono Band,” the statement said. “The next day, it turned out that Allen was studying songs with Lennon. Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton, and Klaus Wurman in the back of the plane to Toronto.”

He continued, “His next album, Live Peace in Toronto, sold millions and reached #10 on the charts. Allen’s collaboration with Lennon continued with the recording of singles such. As “Instant Karma” and the subsequent album “Imagine,” with Allen providing drums for the title tracks “Jealous Guy” and “How Do You Sleep at Night.”

The drummer’s work with Lennon eventually met George Harrison, who asked him to be part of the All Things Must Pass album, added the single My Sweet Lord, released in 1970.