Miles, 60, was a child prodigy who began his career by playing drums in his father George Sr.’s band The Bebops.

Over the years Miles was a member of a number of other groups including Ruby & The Romantics, The Ink Spots, The Delfonics, Electric Flag and the Buddy Miles Express, as well as playing with Carlos Santana and singing lead vocals for the California Raisins claymation ad campaign and three subsequent albums.

The drummer spent the last several years helping to ensure the legacy of Hendrix and his music, making promotional appearances and performing at Hendrix tribute concerts.

Miles’ family asked that the public respect their privacy and said a tribute show will be announced shortly so fans can “come and share in the magic that was Buddy Miles.”