Heavy Metal Pioneer Who Helped Launch W.A.S.P. and Played With Early Version of Great White Dead at 69

Tony Richards, original drummer for W.A.S.P. and an early member of the band that became Great White, has died aged 69. His death marks the loss of a musician who helped shape W.A.S.P.’s first years and contributed to its debut album.

Richards rose to prominence in the Los Angeles music scene in the late 1970s and joined W.A.S.P. before leaving shortly after its debut was released; Steve Riley later took over on drums. The band remembered his infectious personality and striking, energetic playing, saying his contribution remained part of the record. Richards once recalled that he most enjoyed the early days of writing and discovering other bands, before the pace and business demands of the music industry took over.