On This Day in 2009: Dewey Martin Drummer of Buffalo Springfield Passed Away
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Dewey Martin, known for his role as the drummer in the iconic band Buffalo Springfield, passed away at age 68 on January 31, 2009. He was found at his Van Nuys apartment by a friend. Though the exact reason for his passing was unclear at the time, health issues had troubled him in recent years.
The Birth and Impact of Buffalo Springfield
Buffalo Springfield, although a short-lived band, left a lasting mark on rock and country music. Formed in 1966, the group had talented musicians like Neil Young, Stephen Stills, Richie Furay, and Bruce Palmer. The band was one of the early steps in the country-rock scene, blending different music styles. During Martin’s time with the group, they achieved success with tracks like “For What It’s Worth,” which remains an unforgettable tune from that era.
Young praised Martin’s ability to feel the music rather than just play it. His drumming skills made their live performances even more powerful, adjusting to the dynamics of fellow band members without needing any prompts. This natural talent was a key part of Buffalo Springfield’s unique sound.
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Life After Buffalo Springfield and Continuing Pursuits
Unfortunately, the band disbanded after just two years due to internal tensions. Post-split, Young and Stills found great success in their solo careers. While Martin tried to continue the band’s legacy by forming new groups like New Buffalo Springfield, legal issues prevented him from using the original band’s name. Nevertheless, he tried to keep the spirit alive through performances and tours under different names.
Over the years, Martin worked on various projects, including the band Medicine Ball, though this effort didn’t reach commercial success. Despite the ups and downs, Martin remained enthusiastic about music, even exploring innovations in drum equipment in his later years.
Martin was born Walter Milton Dewayne Midkiff on September 30, 1940, in Chesterville, Canada. He moved to the U.S. to pursue a music career, leading him to Los Angeles, where he met Young and Palmer. These connections ultimately led to the formation of Buffalo Springfield, a band whose influence continues today.
