Drummer Alan White’s Family Reveal Cause Of Death

Representation. Clark played drummer "Spazzy McGee" Jones in the 2003 comedy film "School of Rock."

Alan White, the drummer for the English band Yes, died at his home in Seattle at the age of 72 after suffering “a brief illness,” according to a statement from his family.

On Thursday, White’s family announced the death of the drummer, who has played with legendary musicians, like the Beatles' John Lennon and George Harrison.

“Throughout his life and six-decade career, Alan was many things to many people: a certified rock star to fans around the world; bandmate to a select few, and gentleman and friend to all who met him,” the family wrote.

Yes also confirmed White’s passing in a tweet on the band’s official Twitter account.

“It is with deep sadness that YES announce Alan White, their much-loved drummer, and friend of 50 years, has passed away, aged 72, after a short illness,” the statement read.

White’s death comes days after the band announced he would not be a part of their British tour next month due to health problems.

“Due to current health issues, Alan White will not be taking part on the 50th Anniversary Close to the Edge UK Tour. Alan’s close friend Jay Schellen will be taking on drumming duties in Alan’s place,” the group announced over the weekend.

White got his start working on Lennon's 1969 concert “Live Peace in Toronto.” White was also featured on several of Lennon’s records, including the hit “Instant Karma.”

In 1972, White’s career took a major turn when he joined Yes and replaced its founding drummer Bill Bruford. According to his family, White only had three days to learn the music before Yes opened for a crowd of 15,000 in Dallas.

White played music from the group’s “Close to the Edge” album and later appeared on a majority of its live triple album “Yessongs.”

During his time in the group, White also released a solo album “Ramshackled" in 1976. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 as a member of Yes.

White is survived by his wife Gigi, his children Jesse and Cassi, and other extended family members.