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How did Ronnie Tutt die? Iconic drummer, 83, played for Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash

Ronnie Tutt’s wife Donna shared that he was suffering from a heart condition but did not want to be hospitalized

Ronnie Tutt, one of the iconic drummers who played alongside Elvis Presley, died on Saturday, October 16, due to natural causes. He was 83. Ronnie’s wife Donna shared the unfortunate news with TMZ revealing the musician breathed his last at his home in Franklin, Tennessee. Donna shared that he was suffering from a heart condition but did not want to be hospitalized. He spent his final moments surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by Donna, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Ronnie’s daughter Terrie Tutt too took to Facebook to share the sad news. In a post shared with multiple pictures of the drummer, she wrote, “It’s with deep sadness that my family and I share the loss of our beloved dad. The Legendary Drummer, Ronnie Tutt, “has left the building“. He passed away at home surrounded by his family.” Speaking of celebrity deaths, we recently lost Lisa Banes in a hit-and-run accident involving an e-scooter. The 'Deliverance' star Ned Beatty too left us for the heavenly abode. Other celebrities that we lost in the last few months included Johnny Ventura, Chick Vennera, DMX, Jeanette Maus and many more.
 
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Who was Ronnie Tutt?

Ronnie was born in Dallas, Texas, who was passionate about music right from his childhood. He was best known for playing drums for the TCB Band ("Taking Care of Business"), the Elvis Presley touring and recording band after he got recommended by TCB’s keyboardist Larry Muhoberac. He played for Elvis Presley until his death in 1977 and later continued with TCB members years after. Ronnie was part of Elvis' iconic Las Vegas opening show in 1969 that was put together by James Burton.
 
Apart from Elvis, Ronnie toured with Jerry Garcia Band and even played for Neil Diamond on several occasions. He even collaborated with artists such as The Carpenters, Roy Orbison, and Billy Joel. He made a name of himself for playing on Joel’s breakthrough 1973 album, ‘Piano Man’. Ronnie also recorded with legendary artists such as Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Kenny Rogers, Elvis Costello, Stevie Nicks and Michael McDonald.
 
Elvis Presley’s Enterprises paid their condolences on Twitter writing, “All of us with Elvis Presley Enterprises were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ronnie Tutt. In addition to being a legendary drummer, he was a good friend to many of us.” In an official statement, the Elvis Presley Enterprises stated, “We enjoyed each time he joined us here to celebrate Elvis Week, Elvis' Birthday and many other special occasions. Ronnie was an amazing ambassador to Elvis' legacy – sharing his memories of working with Elvis with fans – as well as bringing Elvis' music to arenas around the globe through later Elvis in Concert shows and performances”, as reported by CBS News.
 

‘He was so versatile, so skilled’, says Twitter

Social media users got emotional as they paid their final tributes to late Ronnie Tutt. “RIP Ronnie Tutt a legendary drummer, musician, dear friend to Elvis and friends and family. Gone but never forgotten, reunited with the King in heaven”, said one user as another posted, “May he rest in peace. An amazing talent! Deepest condolences to his wife, family and friends.” The next one added, “RIP Ronnie Tutt.  An extraordinary drummer.”
 
One user tweeted, “R.I.P. the great Ronnie Tutt!!! Elvis Presley’s drummer through the 70s - Vegas and on tour. Very sad to hear he’s gone.” Meanwhile, another shared, “Sad news. Ronnie is a legend. Loved his drumming and tried to emulate it, with mixed results.  He was so versatile, so skilled. Polk Salad Annie at Madison Square Garden still blows me away.  RIP Mr. Tutt.” One chimed and said, “RIP Ron and condolences to the family. He was also Neil Diamonds bed drummer. Great talent sadly has left the building and joined his friends like Elvis Presley.”  While, the next one concluded, “Fantastic drummer. Very important band member on the live performances.”