R.I.P. D.H. Peligro of Dead Kennedys, Red Hot Chili Peppers

He was 63 and died of head trauma caused by a fall

Published Oct 29, 2022

D.H. Peligro, the musician known for his time as the drummer of Dead Kennedys and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, has died. He was 63.

Dead Kennedys confirmed the news on Twitter, writing that Peligro died of head trauma after a fall while at home in Los Angeles. 

Dead Kennedys' drummer D.H. Peligro (Darren Henley) passed away in his Los Angeles home yesterday, Oct 28th. He died from trauma to his head from an accidental fall. Arrangements are pending will be announced in the coming days. Thank you for your thoughts and words of comfort pic.twitter.com/PC7sF87f6c

— Dead Kennedys (@DeadKennedys) October 29, 2022

Chili Peppers bassist Flea posted a tribute on Instagram, calling Peligro a "dear friend" and "the truest rocker, and a crucial part of rhcp history."  Peligro was Dead Kennedys' longest-serving drummer. He joined in 1981, a few years after their formation, and remained a member until his death (aside from a brief hiatus in 2008–2009).

He was briefly the drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1988 before being replaced by Chad Smith. Peligro is credited as a co-writer on three songs from the band's 1989 album, Mother's Milk, although he doesn't perform on the album.

Born Darren Henley, Peligro played in many other bands over the years, including fronting his own band, simply called Peligro.