Thommy Price, Legendary Drummer for Joan Jett and Billy Idol, Passes Away at 68

Thommy Price, the iconic drummer who powered Joan Jett and Billy Idol’s unforgettable beats, has died at 68, leaving behind a rhythmic legacy cherished by generations.

A Beat That Lasted Decades: Thommy Price’s Impact

When I think of the driving force behind some of rock’s most electrifying rhythms, Thommy Price immediately comes to mind. Having kept the tempo for Joan Jett & The Blackhearts for an incredible 30 years, Thommy wasn’t just a drummer—he was the heartbeat of the band. Sadly, on October 10, 2025, his powerful drumsticks fell silent.

His wife Stefunny broke the heartbreaking news, describing Thommy as “a devoted husband and proud father and powerhouse drummer and songwriter.” She remembered his vibrant energy, kindness, and humor, alongside his unmatched rhythm that left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him or saw him perform.

Thommy Price behind the drum kit, a true powerhouse of rock rhythm.

Joan Jett’s Tribute: Honoring a Blackheart

Joan Jett was one of the first to publicly mourn the loss of Thommy. Sharing on Instagram, she expressed the deep hole his passing has left in the band and the music community. “We lost a member of the Blackheart family, the one of a kind Thommy Price,” she wrote. “Thommy was a legendary drummer who was a Blackheart for 4 decades. He was a drummer’s drummer and admired by so many. Our hearts are heavy. Sending love to his beautiful family. We love you Thommy.”

She accompanied her message with a heartfelt video montage that captured Thommy’s essence behind the kit, alongside a snippet from her 2015 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame induction speech—where she praised Thommy as “the heartbeat, the pulse, the roaring compulsion of this band.”

“Thommy should have been inducted with us tonight, and I want to recognize him in front of you all now.” – Joan Jett

This touching tribute perfectly sums up Thommy’s immense contribution to the band’s enduring sound and legacy.

Watch Joan Jett's tribute video here

Billy Idol Remembers a Musical Companion

Thommy’s talents didn’t stop with Joan Jett. In the 1980s, he was a critical part of Billy Idol’s band, stepping in at the last minute during the recording of the iconic Rebel Yell album. Idol himself paid tribute, recalling Thommy as “a fantastic musician and drummer who came in at the last minute and put his definitive stamp on my ‘Rebel Yell’ album.”

Billy Idol reflected on how Thommy helped complete the album and toured extensively with him on the Rebel Yell and Whiplash Smile tours, noting that Thommy was not just a bandmate but also a dear friend.

“Thommy was a friend as well as musical compatriot who brought immense talent and heart to everything he did. And I will miss him.”

See Billy Idol’s tribute post

A Storied Career Beyond Joan and Billy

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1956, Thommy Price’s musical journey was rich and varied. Beyond the massive tours with Joan Jett and Billy Idol, he lent his drumming prowess to a host of other notable acts, including Scandal, Mink DeVille, and Love Crushed Velvet.

His studio work reads like a who's who of rock history, having performed with legends such as Roger Daltrey, The Waterboys, Blue Oyster Cult, The Psychedelic Furs, Ronnie Spector, and Debbie Harry. It's easy to see how his versatile style and impeccable timing made him a sought-after drummer in the industry.

Remembering Thommy Price

Details regarding Thommy Price's cause of death have not been publicly disclosed. He leaves behind his wife Stefunny and their daughter Brooklyn. The music world has lost a true rhythm master whose beats will continue to echo in rock history.

Reflecting on a Drum Legend

Thommy Price’s passing feels like the closing of an era. From those thunderous beats on Rebel Yell to the raw power on stage with Joan Jett, his work shaped the soundtrack of a generation. For fans like me who grew up tapping our feet to his rhythms, his rhythms weren't just background noise—they were the pulse of the music itself.

His story reminds us how the heartbeat of a band often lies in the hands of a drummer who, though sometimes in the background, commands the rhythm and energy that make music unforgettable.

FAQ

• What bands was Thommy Price best known for playing with?
  Thommy Price was famously the drummer for Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and also played extensively with Billy Idol in the 1980s.
• How long did Thommy Price play with Joan Jett?
  He played with Joan Jett & The Blackhearts for 30 years, from 1987 until 2017.
• Did Thommy Price contribute to any famous albums?
  Yes, among others, he played drums on Billy Idol’s Rebel Yell album, where he made a significant impact.
• Who survived Thommy Price?
  Thommy is survived by his wife, Stefunny, and their daughter, Brooklyn.
• Did Thommy Price work with other notable artists?
  Yes, he also worked with artists including Roger Daltrey, The Waterboys, Blue Oyster Cult, The Psychedelic Furs, Ronnie Spector, and Debbie Harry.

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