Richie Hayward

Richie Hayward, Little Feat's drummer extraordinaire, has been diagnosed with advanced-stage liver cancer and has taken an indefinite leave from the band that has been a huge part of his life for almost 40 years.

In the year ahead, Richie will be dealing with costly treatments, and potentially, a liver transplant. Hard to believe in the once-glamorous world of rock & roll, but Hayward is one of the more than 40 million Americans without health insurance. As a result, he is facing hefty expenses for doctor visits, medical tests, medications, travel and hospital stays.

"The news was devastating," according to Little Feat keyboard player Bill Payne. "Originally he was slated to continue touring until the end of the year. But that was not to be."

Richie Hayward's funky syncopations, percolating grooves, and off-the-wall fills have fascinated drummers and would-be drummers ever since Little Feat made their musical mark in the 70's. Richie has defined his own niche by blending early jazz influences with Meters-style New Orleans funk, a touch of Americana roots and a rock'n'roll drive that has earned him a place of distinction as one of the most unique drummers around.

Friends and fellow musicians are arranging a number of benefit concerts on Richie's behalf, including a recent show in Los Angeles that featured Jackson Browne along with Johnny Rivers, Mick Fleetwood plus guitarists Albert Lee, Steve Lukather, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter and Jimmy Vivino.

If you'd like to make a contribution toward Richie Hayward's medical expenses, you can do so here.

On LittleFeat.com, Hayward said, "My intent is to come back to the band, as soon as I am physically able.".

That can't be soon enough, Richie.