Veteran rock drummer Thommy Price, known for his long tenure with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the age of 68. His wife, Stefunny Price, announced his death in a Facebook post, highlighting him as a dedicated husband, proud father, and accomplished drummer with a career spanning decades.
Price, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, joined Joan Jett and the Blackhearts in 1986, succeeding founding drummer Lee Crystal. His time with the band, which continued until 2016, included contributions to eight studio albums, notably the 1988 hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”
The band acknowledged their long-standing member on social media, describing Price as a legendary drummer who was part of the Blackhearts for four decades. They noted his admiration within the industry and expressed their sorrow at his passing, extending love to his family.
Before his stint with Jett’s group, Price gained recognition as a sought-after musician, working with several prominent rock bands. From 1982 to 1984, he played drums for Scandal, led by singer Patty Smyth, contributing to their major hit “The Warrior,” which peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984.
After his time with Scandal, Price joined Billy Idol’s backing band in the mid-1980s, playing on Idol’s successful 1983 album “Rebel Yell,” including the title track. Idol fondly remembered Price, stating he “came in at the last minute and put his definitive stamp on my Rebel Yell album.”
Idol described Price as both a friend and a musical colleague who added significant talent and heart to his work. He credited Price with helping bring the album to a successful conclusion and noted his participation in the Rebel Yell and Whiplash Smile tours.
Throughout his career, Price was a prolific session musician, recording and performing with many well-known artists across different genres. His extensive collaborations included work with Roger Daltrey of The Who, The Psychedelic Furs, Blue Öyster Cult, Debbie Harry of Blondie, Ronnie Spector, Mink DeVille, The Waterboys, and Marshall Crenshaw.
One of Price’s final recorded contributions appears on former Blackhearts guitarist Ricky Byrd’s 2025 solo album “NYC Made,” where he played on the track “RnR’s Demise (Has Been Greatly Exaggerated).” Byrd spoke of Price as solid as a rock and one of the best drummers, noting the impact of his performances on audiences during live shows.
In addition to his musical skills, those who knew Price remembered him for his personal attributes. His wife’s announcement emphasized his energy, kindness, humor, and distinctive rhythm, stating these traits left a lasting impression on everyone he met and every stage he performed on.
Byrd also recalled Price’s personality, describing him as having a Bowery Boys sense of humor while being a sweetheart most of the time. The guitarist expressed satisfaction and pride in having Price participate on his recent album, calling it a final collaboration between former bandmates.
Price’s career established him as one of rock’s most respected drummers, with his contributions spanning four decades in the music industry. His involvement in some of rock’s iconic albums, along with his consistent touring presence, solidified his status in the rock community.
He is survived by his wife, Stefunny, and daughter, Brooklyn, as well as what his wife described as a large, beautiful Italian family. The family mentioned that details regarding a celebration of Price’s life would be shared in the coming days.
No information about the cause of death has been released. His wife’s announcement concluded by stating that his music and spirit would endure in every beat, every song, and every heart he touched throughout his extensive career in rock music.
