Bachman-Turner Overdrive drummer Robbie Bachman, dies aged 69

By Will Groves
published

"Maybe Jeff Beck needs a drummer!" writes brother Randy

Robbie Bachman
(Image credit: Fin Costello / Getty)

Robbie Bachman, founder member of influential '70s rockers Bachman-Turner Overdrive has died, aged 69.

Brother and bandmate Randy announced the sad news on social media last night, writing "The pounding beat behind BTO has joined Mum, Dad & brother Gary on the other side. Maybe Jeff Beck needs a drummer!"

"He was an integral cog in our rock 'n' roll machine."

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The Bachman brothers formed Brave Belt with Fred Turner in 1971, before changing the band's name to Bachman-Turner Overdrive when they were dropped by their label after two poorly received LP releases. 

After releasing both BTO's eponymous debut album and BAchman-Turner Overdrive II in 1973, the band went on to score global hits with Taking Care of Business, Roll on Down the Highway and, of course, the still-ubiquitous You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet.

Will Groves
Will Groves
Editor-in-chief

I'm lucky enough to be MusicRadar's Editor-in-chief while being, by some considerable distance, the least proficient musician on the editorial team. An undeniably ropey but occasionally enthusiastic drummer, I've worked on the world's greatest music making website in one capacity or another since its launch in 2007. I hope you enjoy the site - we do.