Peter Tork, Monkees Bassist, Dead at 77
Peter Tork, best known for being the bassist for The Monkees, has died. He was 77.
A cause of death is currently unknown, but Tork was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare tongue cancer, in 2009. Tork’s sister, Anne Thorkelson, confirmed his passing to The Washington Post.
Tork’s official Facebook page posted the following tribute to Tork:
“It is with beyond-heavy and broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our friend, mentor, teacher, and amazing soul, Peter Tork, has passed from this world. As we have mentioned in the past, the PTFB team is made up of Peter’s friends, family and colleagues – we ask for your kindness and understanding in allowing us to grieve this huge loss privately…We want to thank each and every one of you for your love, dedication and support of our “boss.” Having you in our world has meant so very much to all of us. Please know that Peter was extremely appreciative of you, his Torkees, and one of his deepest joys was to be out in front of you, playing his music, and seeing you enjoy what he had to share. We send blessings and thoughts of comfort to you all, with much gratitude.”
Monkees guitarist Michael Nesmith shared the brief statement, “Just got the news that Peter died. I am heartbroken.”
Monkees drummer Micky Dolenz issued his own brief statement, “There are no words right now…heartbroken over the loss of my Monkee brother, Peter Tork.”
There are no words right now...heart broken over the loss of my Monkee brother, Peter Tork. #petertork #themonkees @TorkTweet pic.twitter.com/C8SwoA8pEV
— Micky Dolenz (@TheMickyDolenz1) February 21, 2019
Despite being labeled “The Pre-Fab Four,” The Monkees sold millions of albums thanks in part to the success of their NBC television show of the same name, which won an Emmy for “Outstanding Comedy Series” in 1967.
In total, The Monkees had four albums to reach number one on the Billboard 200 chart and a slew of hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including three number one hits with “Last Train to Clarksville,” “I’m a Believer” and “Daydream Believer.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvqeSJlgaNk/
Erica Banas is rock/classic rock news blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.