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Terry Sullivan, Drummer of Renaissance’s Classic ’70s Lineup, Dies at 87

Annie Haslam said he died peacefully surrounded by family, reflecting on his central place in the band’s symphonic rock legacy.

Overview

  • Haslam announced his death on social media and asked for prayers for his family; no cause of death was disclosed.
  • Sullivan joined Renaissance in 1972 after answering a Melody Maker ad, making his debut on the album Prologue.
  • He remained with the group through 1979’s Azure d’Or, playing on Scheherazade and Other Stories and the UK Top 10 single Northern Lights.
  • He left after Azure d’Or in protest over the firing of longtime friend John Tout, later rejoining to record the 2001 album Tuscany and a live release from Japan.
  • Before and after Renaissance, he played with the psychedelic band Dry Ice and formed Renaissant, whose album South of Winter was released in 2005; he is survived by his wife Christine, sons Lee and Kristian, and grandson Ashton.