Remembering Kenny Morris: The Original Drummer of Siouxsie and the Banshees
The passing of Kenny Morris, the original drummer of the British punk band Siouxsie and the Banshees, has been announced. John Robb, a music journalist and close friend of Morris, shared the news without disclosing the cause of death. Robb fondly remembered Morris as a sweet, artistic, and eccentric individual who had a unique sense of style and was a key part of the 1976 punk era.
Born in Essex, England, in 1957, Morris studied fine art and filmmaking before briefly joining the early punk band The Flowers of Romance with Sid Vicious. In 1977, Morris became the original drummer of Siouxsie and the Banshees, a rock band formed by Siouxsie Sioux and Steven Severin in London in 1976. Morris shared his passion for rock'n'roll and his audition experience with the band, where he impressed the manager despite initial skepticism.
Morris played on the band's first two records, "The Scream" and "Join Hands," before abruptly leaving the group with guitarist John McKay during a tour in 1979. The departures led to the band's transition from post-punk to new wave, with Morris exploring other drumming opportunities and eventually enrolling in film school. Before his passing, Morris was reportedly drumming for the band Shrine of the Vampyre and had written a memoir set for release later this year.
The legacy of Kenny Morris lives on through his contributions to the music scene and his unique artistic presence. His impact on the punk era and his role in Siouxsie and the Banshees will be remembered by fans and music enthusiasts alike.