Gary McCracken has sadly passed away at the age of 75. He rose to fame as part of Max Webster, where he showcased his world-class drumming skills. Following the news of McCracken's death, Geddy Lee of the 1970s hitmakers Rush took to social media to pay tribute to his late friend.
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"Just heard the very sad news that my old friend, drummer, Gary "Stixie" McCracken has passed away," Lee wrote in the caption of an Instagram post. "Back in the late 70's Rush toured the world with Max Webster as our opener. ... Needless to say, we became very close pals. When our show in Paris was cancelled, Stixie (right) myself, and assistant Sam Charters (left) headed there anyway for 3 crazy days of pommes frites, beer and berets... RIP Stixie ...(and Sam). Oh what memories we made."
McCracken joined Max Webster in 1976. He replaced Paul Kersey on the drums, making his recording debut in 1977. His first song with the group was "High Class In Borrowed Shoes." McCracken remained with Max Webster until 1981, when the band ultimately went their separate ways.
After his time with Max Webster had run its course, McCracken spent time with groups such as Wrabit and Klaatu. He also released a solo album in 2000.
Some Believe Gary McCraken Was One of the Best Drummers in the World
In a tribute that was posted to the "Rush Fans" Facebook group, one user shared their belief that McCracken was, at one point, among the best drummers on the planet.
"Sad day,"
the user wrote. "Max Webster drummer Gary McCracken has passed away. As a musician, (and I say this with all objectivity and sincerity)he was one of the greatest drummers on the planet. I don't think many people outside of Max fanatics know what a monster player he was. The fact that night after night on tour Neil Peart would be behind the curtain drumming along to the entire Max set as his warmup should tell you all that you need to know about what a high level drummer that Gary McCracken is/was."Currently, there are no details regarding McCracken's cause of death. Furthermore, no details regarding an impending funeral or celebration of life have been made public. That information will likely remain private for family and close friends.
