David Kaff dead aged 79: Spinal Tap keyboardist & Chuck Berry band member dies as tributes pour in for rocker
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ROCK legend David Kaff has died at 79.
The keyboardist performed with the likes of Chuck Berry, and gained fame as a star in This is Spinal Tap.
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Rock star David Kaff has died at 79
Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
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David Kaff (back right) gained fame as the keyboardist in Spinal Tap
Credit: Avalon.red
Kaff's band Mutual of Alameda's Wild Kingdom announced the news of his death on Friday, July 11.
They wrote: "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."
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A cause of death wasn't noted.
He was known for portraying the keyboardist Viv Savage in popular 1984 musical comedy This Is Spinal Tap.
The mockumentary centred on the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap - characterised as "one of England's loudest bands".
It led to a performance on Saturday Night Live in 1984.
In the film's end credits, Kaff's character reminds audiences to "have a good time...all the time."
A sequel to the movie is set to release in September, although Kaff is not listed on the credits.
Kaff was a founding member of the rock group Rare Bird from 1969 to 1975.
The band released five studio albums, with their song "Sympathy" selling an estimated one million copies globally.
He went on to work with Chuck Berry as a session musician for The London Chuck Berry Sessions in 1972.
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