In a post on Facebook from Thursday 7 November, Kenney wrote: "It is with a broken heart that I share the devastating news that my son Jesse has passed. I don’t have the words right now to fully express how I am feeling. But I want to thank you all for your kind wishes at this indescribably painful time and ask for continued love, respect and privacy as we try to navigate this profound loss as a family."
Numerous musician friends also sent their condolences, including Spandau Ballet star Gary Kemp who wrote: “I’m so sorry Kenney. Much love to you and your family.”
London born Kenney, 76, who has six children including Jesse from two marriages, began his career as a drummer at the age of just 15, when he joined The Small Faces, who had hits including All or Nothing, Itchycoo Park and Tin Soldiers. He was also a member of The Faces, alongside singer Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, Ronnie Lane and Ian McLagan, who were known for songs including smash hit Stay With Me. Following the death of Keith Moon in 1978, he was invited to join The Who as their drummer. Kenney has also worked with artists including Joan Armatrading, The Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Paul McCartney’s former band Wings and has written about his varied musical career in the book Let the Good Times Roll: My Life in Small Faces, Faces, and The Who.
