Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack died Monday at the age of 65, Hossack, who had been struggling with cancer, lost his battle at his home in Dubois, Wyoming, RollingStone.com reports.
Hossack was an early member of the Doobie Brothers, and played with the rock band between 1971 and 1973. He is featured on some of the band's biggest hits, including "Jesus Is Just Alright," "Listen to the Music" and "China Grove." In 1987 Hossack returned to the band when they reunited for a concert to benefit veterans' causes.
Hossack remained a mainstay of the group throughout the next two decades, performing on most of the group's tours until he took a health leave in 2010.
The Doobie Brothers posted this official statement on their website after the news of Hossack's death broke.
We’re posting this to confirm the sad news that’s been circulating very quickly.
Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack passed away yesterday in Dubois, Wyoming, at the age of 65. His family was by his side. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We will miss him greatly.
“Mike has always been a part of my musical life and the life of the Doobie Brothers; from our earliest singles, like ‘China Grove’ and ‘Blackwater’ to our most recent single ‘Brighter Day,' Doobie Brothers vocalist and guitarist Tom Johnston said in a statement. "He was an incredible musician, a studio quality drummer. The last few years, he was brave and determined to keep on playing in the face of ill health, and I will always admire him for that. He was a terrific dad and family man, and we will all miss him.”
Here is a list of many of the notable deaths from 2011:
