The drummer for the Dead Kennedys who once joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers, DH Peligro, has died aged 63. The musician, real name is Darren Henley, died of a head injuryu after a fall at his home in Los Angeles.
A statement from the band said: "Dead Kennedys’ drummer D.H. Peligro (Darren Henley) passed away in his Los Angeles home yesterday, October 28.
"Police on the scene stated that he died from trauma to the head caused by an accidental fall. Arrangements are pending and will be announced in the coming days. We ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. Thank you for your thoughts and words of comfort."
Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea shared a series of picture tributes on Instagram. His post read: “My dear friend, my brother I miss you so much. I’m devastated today, a river of tears, but all my life I will treasure every second.
“The first time I saw you play with the DK’s in ’81 you blew my mind. The power, the soul, the recklessness. You became my beloved friend, so many times of every kind.
“We had so much fun, so much joy, having each other’s backs. I love you with all my hear. You are the truest rocker, and a crucial part of rhcp history.
“You live forever in our hearts, you wild man, you bringer of joy, you giant hearted man. I will always honor you. Rest In peace and freedom from all that restrained you.”
East Bay Ray who played with Peligro in Dead Kennedys, wrote on Facebook: "‘I am heartbroken. D.H. Peligro passed away in his Los Angeles home yesterday, Oct 28.
"He died from trauma to his head from an accidental fall. Arrangements are pending will be announced in the coming days."
He added: "We were musical brothers. Thank you for your thoughts and words of comfort."
Peligro joined the Dead Kennedys in 1981 and went on to record studio albums Plastic Surgery Disaster, Bedtime for Democracy and Frankenchrist. The band split in 1986 but reunited in the 2000s.
Peligro was in the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1988 and contributed to the band’s Mother’s Milk album.
Outside of bands, Peligro also enjoyed solo success and released three albums – one of which, Sum of Our Surroundings, was named rock album of the year at the American Independent Music Awards.
His latest track Power Is Taken, which was recorded with Moby, came out in 2020.
