Musician David Kaff has died at the age of 79.
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While Kaff's name may not be immediately recognizable to music fans, comedy junkies and cinephiles will recognize him as keyboardist Viv Savage, the only man capable of playing the bassline in the song "Big Bottom." The thumping track is one of the musical highlights from the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap.
In the 1984 comedy classic, Savage says his ability to play the hilarious ode to derrieres came from having "two hands." He was also known for his novel approach to life, delivering his unusual creed at the end of the film: "Have a good time...all the time."
Savage was a legend
As it typically goes in the rock world, Savage's fast life came to an abrupt end when he visited the grave of fellow Spinal Tap member Mick Shrimpton. Because of a buildup of methane gas under the drummer's gravesite, an explosion occurred. Savage tragically perished in the wreckage.
His final appearance with Spinal Tap came when the band performed on Saturday Night Live in 1984, with a posthumous appearance in a public service announcement about hearing loss for the non-profit Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers (H.E.A.R.).
This Is Spinal Tap was recently rereleased in movie theaters earlier this month in anticipation of its sequel, which is set to be released this September.
Kaff was a legend as well
In the real world, Kaff was born in England in April 1946. He made a name for himself in the '70s with the progressive rock group Rare Bird, credited as David Kaffinetti. The group had an international hit with the track "Sympathy." It sold over a million copies worldwide. He was also a session musician, appearing on Chuck Berry's 1972 album, The London Chuck Berry Sessions.
Kaff also performed with other bands, including Model Citizenz, based in Oakland, and the psychedelic hard rockers Mutual of Alameda's Wild Kingdom. His death was announced on the latter group's
Facebook page."Our brother
David Kaffinetti passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday.We are devastated by this event.
David always had a kind word and a quick wit that would slay you where you stand. Then he'd make you smile doing it!
RIP dear brother"
