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February 6th, 2009
06:28 PM ET
Dewey Martin, 1940-2009Rolling Stone and the Los Angeles Times have reported Dewey Martin, best known as drummer for Buffalo Springfield, has died at 68. According to the RS obituary, Martin was praised by Neil Young as “a sensitive drummer. ... He can feel the music - you don’t have to tell him.” He sang lead on "Good Time Boy" (from Springfield's terrific second album, "Buffalo Springfield Again") and background vocals on the group's only Top 10 hit, "For What It's Worth." According to the L.A. Times, he died Saturday. Cause of death is believed to be natural causes. - From news reports |
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Thanks for the memories Dewey. You made life a little more pleasurable for me growing up in the 60's. I still listen to your music and smile when I think about it.
RIP.
Yep folks, We are at the point in our lives that our rock hero's are starting to check out, not from drugs per say, but from just growing old.
The thing to remember about these great talents, is the profound music they left with us, no one writes or plays like that anymore, therefore it will remain truly timeless. I did not much about Dewey, but I do have their albums, and he had to of been a great drummer to play with a great band, look at the line up!
RIP Dewey and thanks for being part of my growing up years that I cherish the most
The only thing Lux Interior gave the music world was the most accurately titled album of all time: The Cramps' "Bad Music for Bad People"
Definitely was in one of the more talented and interesting bands of the 60's...Dewey's legacy is definitely secure! Neil Young is the best artist in music (then and today) in my humble opinion. Even the slightest compliment from Neil speaks volumes! Neil loved BS and all of his band members. RIP Dewey!
i am a baby boomer and this is the music of my heyday !!!!!!!!!!!!! some of the best music ever, when people like this die i feel very vunerable !!!!!!!!!! long live "rock &roll" THE DAY THE MUSIC DIED !!!!!!!!!!!!god bless dewey...........
I forgot one thing as well.....his real name was Dewey Midkiff
Dewey was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He was best friends with my brother growing up but he was gone to the states before I really knew him that well. He used to have a terrific midnight blue convertible that he woul drive around. Always larger than life. My mother was worried about a "bad influence" on my brother.....chuckle
Mel Bain - Lux who? At least Dewey Martin didn't feel the need to change his name.
Met Dewey a few times and he was just a nice friendly guy...rest in peace
I had the good fortue of playing with Dewey while he was member of my brothers band. He had a natural ability to read what a musician was about to do and would set the part up in a way that is seldom seen in music. He will be missed!
Been to MauiIceCreamShop.com?
Had the pleasure of touring with Dewey in the summer of 69. Buffalo had broken up but Dewey took the name and added some fantastic musicians and hit the road again. My high school band "The Taxmen" opened for Buffalo for a couple week tour in Oregon and Washington, playing a different armory or dance hall every night. First couple nights we didn't stay at the same hotel and it was Dewey that invited us to join him and his band in the same hotel and "Party". That we did and it was an incredible 2 weeks. Being a drummer, Dewey was a big infuence.
Rest in peace Dewey
To this day I will always remember your unscheduled and bring the house down performance at the old Russell Hotel in Smith's Falls Ontario, Canada. It was around July 1972 and not far from your home town. The Springfield had a tremendous 60's influence on me as a young person and it was a thrill to see you in person.
Nepean,Ontario, Canada
A masterfull performer among the great rockers, he will be missed very much.
Buffalo Springfield only existed for two years, and they're mostly remembered for one song ("For What It's Worth") and the dueling egos of Stephen Stills and Neil Young. That's a shame. There was so much more to the band than the casual listener will ever know.
Anyone who doubts Dewey Martin's ability as a singer/songwriter (let alone drummer) should go listen to "Good Time Boy." It provides a hint of what could have been, if they'd been able to continue as a band. I've heard that Dewey tried to keep the concept alive, but it just wouldn't fly without the depth of the original members. I wish I could've heard them.
Then again, if they hadn't imploded so thoroughly, we might never have heard CSN&Y or Poco.
Rest in peace, Mr. Martin.
too bad... but i gotta tell ya i cant say i ever heard of the guy
see you in a while brother....................
Buffalo Springfield bring back so many incredible good memories .
During the sixties listening to Dewey on drums while I was
learning to play my first 12 string guitar. Thank you Dewey for the
pleasure you gave to so many who held on to the music during such politically charged times. The music will live on and teach
a new generation of children. Condolences to family
and friends.
May he rest in peace. Aloha!!!!!!!!
IM SAD
'THERE'S A WOMAN THAT YOU OUGHT TO KNOW," YOU WILL NOW MAN GOD LOVE YA-"SHE LOVES ROCK AND ROLL," HAVE A GREAT TIME UP THERE!
RIP, a very proud Canadian!
Although I never knew them personally, I have always been a giant fan of this group. Dewey was not as famous as some other members but he was part of the glue that kept them together for the years that they were together. "Sit Down I Think I Love You", "Tell You That You Look So Fine" are two of the finest written and recorded music I have ever heard. Springfield was the begining of greatness for Steve, Neil and also Richie. I hope his life after B Springfield was a good one and that he passed away painfree and without regret. Thank you Dewey for bringing some great music into this world.....Steve
One of my favorite bands....raised my conscientiousness in the 1960's to the horrors of the Vietnam war....sad day..
Hi,
Just to set the record straight, Dewey was Canadian, born Walter Milton Dewayne Midkiff on Sept. 30, 1940, in Chesterville, Ont., near Ottawa.
You've got try reading your news from more than just US sites if you want the full story.
Dewey and I were alternating drummers at a church in the early 80's
Not only was he a sensitive drummer, but he was also a sensitive person. He will be missed by those that knew him.
Hey Hey, My My, Rock & Roll will never die. Rock on Man.
Say "Hey" to everyone from us rockers still here in this life....
Dewey Martin....Thank you for the music that you expressed during my youthful journey throughout the California redwoods and canyons.
Dewey also played in a relativley unknown NW band called Sir Raleigh & The Cupons. I remember their version of "White Cliffs Of Dover" back in the mid 60's. Sounded very "British". Still one of my all time fave 60's tune although it was only a regional hit.
RIP Dewey, a shame a musician has to pass on at an age when he could still contribute. However the Buffalo music was AM sing-a-long girl stuff. Simple music for simple minds.
Like she sang..."take another little piece of my heart now baby"... say hello to all who are missed, as will you
Mel Bain - what are you smoking, and where can I get some? Not one person in a thousand knows who that guy is that you mention. On the other hand, anyone who listens to '60s rock and roll eventually winds up listening to Dewey Martin's excellent playing.
This century will see some of the greatest musicians passing on to a new phase in their lives. We all knew it had to happen sooner or later, but not this soon. RIP Dewey!!
Only about 10 people in the whole world knew or cared who Lux Interior was. Gimme a break–he sucked at singing which is the only reason someone sings (if you can call it that) hardcore punk.
Mel Bain, you find it hard to believe that a member of one of the most legendary and beloved bands of the 60's passing is more newsworthy than the passing of a guy from a garage-punk band that 99% of the population has never heard of. Ummm yeah.. that's a real puzzle that is....
Dewey was a great part of a great era. The members of which are aging and dying. They are American history.
Buffalo Springfield, so good, such good memories.
RETROSPECTIVE
Lux who?
if it wasn't for Buffalo Springfield, there never would have been any bands such as the Cramps. RIP Dewey & Lux.
I remember in one of the books Dewey was mad that he had to actually audition for Buffalo Springfield. It was a funny story.
R.I.P. Dewey, terrific drummer. Very subtle but a right foot as fast as Bonham. Listen to the tunes, you'll see. Bite me Mel! Lux who?
Thanks for the memories, Dewey........you will always live on in the music you made. Peace!
I just introduced a (younger) friend to the Buffalo Springfield. As we were driving I slid in the Retrospective “The best of the Buffalo Springfield CD. My friend said to me “Why Don’t the kids of today play Music that good? Did you hear that Dewey? God Bless you brother, thanks for the beat.
fly high...freebird
Another one moving on to play "That Great Gig In the Sky"
R.I.P. Dewey!
Dewey was a friend and teacher of mine. He taught me an a lot about drumming back in the '80s. He would always remind me "It's not what you play, it's what you don't play." He was always chatty and laughing and used to crack up constantly joking about something while rummaging around the house in shorts and his old Buffalo Springfield multi-colored boots. He loved his dogs and was a great guy with a heart as big as gold who will be missed by all who's knew him.
Mel
I can't believe you felt the need to type that drivel. Every musician should be respected for their contributions not just who you deem important. Have some respect or say nothing.
God needed a drummer
Love the idea of a reunion of the remaining members! Let's hope it happens!
Everyone who helped write "The Gospel of the Sixties" is slowly dying away. And there are no poetic heirs to the throne. "Where have all the flowers gone?"
My father has told this story over the years to many who would listen when ever a Buffalo Springfield song would come on the radio. Mid September 1972; My family was heading south out of Ontario, Canada in our whacky painted bus that I spent so much of my early childhood on, broke down. I remember we stayed there for a couple days camped out like a band of gypsies on the side of the road. on about the 3rd day we were visited by the Royal Mounties and was told we couldnt stay or they would move us out. Having little money my dad taking odd jobs and working his way thru college I think the Mounty felt sorry about our situation and wanted to help or just us moving again. Late the next day a man came to help in a shiny new truck but was covered in oil and dirt and he smelled bad. what was wierd was after about 10 minutes of them discussing problems with the bus my dad started laughing and hugging the man with a name patch on his chest. It said "Dewey" I later renamed him "Dewey pee uwie" for the bad odor he had. After several hours of working on our home on wheels it was decided that we needed a radiator and a water pump for our 1959 chevy short bus. He was offered to stay with us and eat by the camp fire and he did since the parts were in the opposit direct from his home. We sat arounf the fire and sang songs from the day and my dad telling me that Dewey was a drummer for his favorite band Buffalo Springfield. My mother and me picked up an 8 track tape of the again album for a birthday present for my dad.The next morning Dewey pee uwie and my dad left to get some parts that my dad says that the nice mechanic man payed for. I remember telling Dewey I would boil water on the fire if he wished to bathe and he just patted me on the head and said to thank my mom for the bath, he smelled like lavander that morning. Then I asked if he was really with my dads favorite band and he said yes, 'I said how can that be your singing really stinks' he just chuckled and said he was a percussionist. Thinking that was still kind of cool I told him of the 8 track we got my dad and even though he wasn't the lead singer he could still sign the 8 track. We all hugged and said goodbye that night and it still is fresh my mind the kindness and friendship we shared those 3 days. We never heard from Dewey after that cause we ended up In Reseda,Ca several weeks later where my dad took a job for Rocketdyne as a machinist building rocket engines for the Nasa Space program. The 8 track is still a prized possesion and is still in it's package somewhere in my dads atic.
So sad that these fabulous musicians are passing on. Buffalo Springfield's music was mystical to me and very different from other killer albums of the times. To this day, those songs still give me chills.
Who is Lux Interior?
was lux interior a porn star or one of those guys who painted up his face and spit on the audience? i never heard of him. but i was more in tune with the beatles, buffalo springfield, allman brothers band, etc.
From Bruce "Now that Stills and Young have mellowed, how about a reunion with the remaining members."
Only if they both agree to wear painters pants.
Wow, do I feel old.
Such sad news. One of my favorite groups growing up. Still love "For What It"s Worth."
Very sorry to hear this. I'm a big Buffalo Springfield fan and keep them on my iPod.
Say Hello TO JERRY GARCIA,RIP DEWEY!!! JERSEY THUGS KILLED JERRY GARCIA!!!! RIP DEWEY! WE LOVE YOU!
Something must first be defined; then it can be re-defined. In a time when anything goes, why bother?
This is a sad day for music fans!
Samn–another good 60s drummer gone! the 1st two Buffalo Springfield lpswere the first two lps I bought with ny own money. goodby Dewey–say hi to Spencer Dryden and Jim Capaldi for us!
It's truly sad...Heaven is beginning to assemble in greater numbers the talent from a defining era in rock history. Dewey was an integral part of a 60's band that existed during a tumultuous time in our country. Buffalo Springfield was instrumental in spawning some of the greatest rock artists we have come to know.
Dewey was part of a special group of musicians at a very special time in many of our lives. The most pleasant of my memories almost always include music. Thanks for helping make some of those memories, Dewey.
There must be one heck of a jam session going on in heaven! He was a great musician. See you at the woodshed ......
Sad. Could it be that every musician becomes an angel, a muse, for other musicians here on earth?
Mel Bain: Lux Interior was a hack who regurgitated the lamest of garage-rock cliches.
...Now I won't be back till later on
If I do come back at all
But you know me, and I miss you now...
Though the other side is just the same
You can tell my dream is real
Because I love you
Can you see me now?
Though we rush ahead to save our time
We are only what we feel
And I love you
Can you feel it now ?
RIP, Dewey–take the drum kit up in heaven behind Mama Cass, Gene Clark, Gram Parsons, et al.
It is a bummer as Pineapple Boy put it, but man, if we are lucky enough to go to heaven, or somplace in between, I want to go where all the great musicians go, any other place would indeed be hell.
As for Mel......No space for him Iwith us, he is too uo tight.
Bye the way...who was Lux Interior? Did he orthey have any realatiion too or with Liberace??
It sucks getting old, so everyone get it while you can.....No promise of tommorw, but with any luck we will have one hell of a band
(no pun or fun intended)
Mel Bain, if you want to compare the contribution of the Lux Interior of The Cramps to Dewey Martin of Buffalo Springfield, go right ahead, but if you think anyone outside of the lucky hand few of people who even knew The Cramps, go right ahead, however The Cramps had their 15 minutes, whereas Buffalo Springfield were part of a musical movement that is just as fresh today as they were back in the day. Lux Interior, Gimme a break
We have lost so many talented but unsung legends; Dewey Martin, Skip Spence, John Cippolina, Syd Barrett, Delaney Bramlett, just to name a few. Stones in the foundation of music.
I was heavily influenced by the Buffalo Springfield. Grew up in Orange County and did the garage band thing through the 60s. I remember the drives up to Hollywood when the Strip featured groups like the Springfield and the Bryds. For What its Worth was written about the riots on Sunset Strip which I happened to get caught up in. There WAS something happening there.
From a time when the bands were both singers and very good musicians. While we got CSN out of the deal when BS splitup, I wish BS had made a few more albums.
Those were the days. So much talent. So much creative art. Thanks, Dewey, for playing your part in it.
Rest in peace Dewey. Thanks for the music
Such sad news. The greats are leaving this world but their work will be here forever. I will enjoy their music every chance I get.
i love his subtle, steady counterpoints in playing "i am a child" ... makes me appreciate how such accompaniment adds depth to a song ... live long in the deep dewey
Buffalo Springfield put out some of the defining music of the '60's and their musical heritage is secure. It is truly sad to hear of the passing of Dewey Martin, the drummer of one of the greatest bands of a generation. There has not been any other band since that captured the essence of the confusion over the split on public opinion on the War in Viet Nam, and the troubling dispirited discomfortant of the times. Their music has withstood the test of time while still sounding unique, important to its time in history and remarkably compelling music. RIP Mr. Martin.
Mel Bain....?????
Are you kidding? Lux Interior redefined American music????
WTF????
Lux Interior? You gotta be kidding...
Something's happening here . . . what it is ain't exactly clear . . . young people speaking their minds . . .
All those years ago . . . as fresh and exciting 43 years later. Buffalo Springfield. I won't forget.
Get a life Mel. Cramps or the Springfield????
I'm bummed by this news. I was living in Hana, Maui in the mid 70's and met Dewey Martin who was living in the area at the time. I remember at a dance at Hana High School in '74 he appeared on stage with a local garage band and did a melt down version of Wipeout
I heard on the radio to-day that this fellow was born in Chesterville in 1940.Did you know him.
Vince
Now that Stills and Young have mellowed, how about a reunion with the remaining members.
Dewey was a very good drummer. "Sensitive," as Neil Young described him, is apt; he could be laid back but stil drive the band. A rare skill for drummers.
Dewey was a fantastic drummer, a singing drummer, of which there are precious few that have the talent in both areas as he did (Dave Grohl, Phil Collins, the Hollies drummer, a few others). Also, this group was more influential than most people realize. They coelesced a sound that can still be heard today. It is said that they were all equal partners at first, and with band members like Neil Young, Steven STills and Richie Furay, that is saying something.
Very sad...goodbye Dewey....
Anyone who would like a true taste of the 60's would do good to pickup Buffalo Springfields Greatest Hit's CD. Dewey's contrabution on percussion cannot be ignored. The dynamic of his sound and that of the band is not found very often today. As a matter of fact it's a work of art that I used to purchase my latest Hi Fi stereo because of it's range of richness.
I can't believe that you found this more newsworthy than the death of Lux Interior, who was an innovative musician and redefined American music
R.I.P. {{{{{{{{{**Dewey**}}}}}}}}}} Buffalo Springfiled was such a great part of music history. Great songs to be held forever in our hearts.
Rest in peace brother. You did some good in this world, and many of us will remember your contributions.
..the rockers are passing.....thanks dewey ...say hi to jerry.