Manny Martinez, one of the original drummers of the legendary punk band Misfits, has died at the age of 69.
The news was announced on social media by Zach Rector, a friend of Martinez. No cause of death has been given.
“I will miss you brother Manny Martinez,” she wrote, also calling him “a true living legend” and “Buddy Rich's disciple.”
He continued: “I remember Manny telling me many times when Buddy brought his steaks while he was coming up and his stories about his family's infamous bar… A period of authentic MISTAKES.” Rector added that Martinez was “an upright guy,” who often checked in on the renovation of his 1872 home.
“More than a musician, an artist and a carpenter … he was my friend,” he concluded. “Calm down Manny.”
I Will Miss You Brother Manny Martinez / A True Living Legend Buddy Rich Disciple I remember Manny telling me…
posted by Zach Rector on Saturday, December 16, 2023
Manny Martinez joined the punk band early in their formation in 1977, quickly replacing original drummer Mr. Jim. Although he wasn't technically the first drummer recruited for the band, he appears on Misfit's debut single 'Cough/Cool' and the B-side of 'She'.
Martinez apparently also introduced frontman Glenn Danzig to bassist Jerry Only. He would stay with the band for about a year, reportedly playing eight live shows before leaving the band.
Tributes have poured in from fans and friends around the world. “Real shame to hear about Manny Martinez, the best drummer the Misfits have ever had by far,” wrote one user. “When we were kids, Manny used to scare us on the way home from school,” another person commented. “DISCLAIMER. Once a misfit always a misfit.”
Check out the full list of tributes below:
Real shame to hear about Manny Martinez, the best drummer the Misfits ever had.
— ✩☆Jawbreaker☆✩ (@ShaggyWarhol) December 17, 2023
It is very sad to make this post. Original Misfits drummer Manny Martinez has passed away. Manny played in…
posted by Eric Vitale on Saturday, December 16, 2023
Hello, sad news. Original Misfits drummer Manny Martinez has been confirmed dead. Manny…
posted by Original Misfits Fiend Crypt on Saturday, December 16, 2023
RIP Manny Martinez, the original Misfits drummer who was featured on the single She/Cough Cool. Thank you for laying the foundation for many, many more to come.
posted by Jesse Hammer on Saturday, December 16, 2023
It seems that it is now undisputed. Manny Martinez unfortunately left the building. I am very happy that I was able to…
posted by They Came From Lodi – An Inappropriate Story on Saturday, December 16, 2023