Legendary drummer Clem Cattini, best known as the co-founder of the instrumental rock band The Tornados, has passed away at the age of 89. The acclaimed musician died following a fall at his residence on November 2. His death came shortly after he underwent treatment for medical complications. He was regarded as one of Britain's most prolific session drummers, having performed on hundreds of recordings throughout his career.
Born to Italian parents in 1937, in London, Clemente Anselmo Agustino Cattini began his music journey by performing at Soho's 2i's Coffee Bar before joining Johnny Kidd & the Pirates. His rock and roll drumming featured on the band's famous track, 'Shakin' All Over'. He went on to become one of the founding members of band, The Tornados. In 1965, he became a session musician, ending up playing on at least 42 UK Number One Singles. The musician gained recognition for their instrumental hit 'Telstar', which topped the UK charts for five weeks and became the first British group's song to reach the top of the US Billboard Hot 100.
In the wake of his success with the band, the drummer collaborated with several musicians including Tom Jones, Dusty Springfield, The Kinks, Lou Reed and Paul McCartney. He also played drums on Donovan's 'Hurdy Gurdy Man' and Tony Christie's hit song, 'Is This the Way to Amarillo'. Cattini was considered by guitarist Jimmy Page for the drumming in Led Zepplin before John Bonham was eventually chose.
Talking about his offer to join Led Zeppelin, Clem Cattini said, "I was very busy doing sessions. I had been on the road for nine years, and suddenly I was at home, getting into my own bed at night. Peter Grant (Led Zeppelin's manager-in-waiting) saw me at a session, phoned me and asked me to go to lunch to him to talk about a project. We never had that lunch. Not for any reason. I was just too busy."
Several tributes have been paid after the musicians demise including Tony Christie who said,"So very sad to hear that the great Clem Cattini, drummer of The Tornados and prolific session drummer has passed away. Clem played on more number 1 records than any other British drummer. Proud to have known him. My condolences and love to his family."
Clem Cattini's legacy lives through his hundreds of recordings that showcased his distinctive percussion and enduring influence on British music.