Washington— John Hartman, the Doobie Brothers’ first drummer, died at 72.
The Doobie Brothers posted about Hartman’s death on Thursday.
The tweet said, “John was a crazy character, an amazing drummer, and showman in the Doobies.” “He was a longtime buddy and integral to the band’s character.” We’re sorry for his family’s loss. “
Hartman, Simmons, and Johnston established The Doobie Brothers in the 1970s. According to the band’s website, Hartman met the pair in Bay Area pubs.
“Toulouse Street” was the band’s second hit. “Black Water,” “What a Fool Believes,” and “Listen to the Music” were hits.
Hartman left the band in 1979 but returned for 1989’s “Cycles” After 1991’s “Brotherhood,” he retired in 1992.
Hartman played on the first eight Doobie Brothers albums. The drummer is Ed Toth.
Hartman and the Doobies were inducted in 2020. In 2004, the band was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.