Petersen was an Australian musician and actor, best known as the original drummer for the Bee Gees. Born in Kingaroy, Queensland, on March 24, 1946, Petersen showed artistic promise early on, initially as a child actor. He gained fame at the age of nine for his role in the Australian film Smiley (1956), earning him the enduring nickname “Smiley.”
BeeGees, Petersen far right
Despite his success on screen, Petersen’s passion for music took precedence in his teenage years. After studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, he honed his drumming skills and became a sought-after musician in the Australian rock scene. In 1966, he was introduced to Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb, and soon joined the Bee Gees as their drummer. His innovative playing and solid backbeat were integral to the band’s early hits, including “To Love Somebody,” “Massachusetts,” and “Words.” Petersen’s contributions extended beyond drumming; he was actively involved in the group’s creative process and their transition from a regional act to international superstars.
Petersen’s tenure with the Bee Gees was marked by both professional highs and interpersonal challenges. He was featured on some of their most successful albums of the late 1960s, including Bee Gees’ 1st and Horizontal. However, creative differences and management disputes led to his departure in 1969, during the recording of Odessa. Despite leaving the group, Petersen’s impact on their early sound remained undeniable.
After parting ways with the Bee Gees, Petersen explored other artistic ventures, including managing and producing local acts in Australia. While his music career gradually took a backseat, he remained a respected figure in the industry, celebrated for his pioneering work during the Bee Gees’ formative years. In his later years, Petersen embraced a quieter life, dedicating time to his family and occasionally participating in interviews or retrospectives about the Bee Gees.
Rest In Peace.
