Doug Ingle, who co-founded the heavy rock band Iron Butterfly and was the singer and organist on songs including their signature hit, “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida,” died Friday at age 78. He was the last surviving member of the classic lineup from the late 1960s.
Most of Iron Butterfly’s success came with the 17-minute FM radio smash “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida.” The 1968 sophomore album named after the hit single spent 81 weeks in the top 10 in the U.S.; for a while it stood as the bestselling album in Atlantic Records’ history. The LP went on to be certified quadruple-platinum.
Ingle’s family announced the passing on social media and did not give a cause of death. “It’s with a heavy heart & great sadness to announce the passing of my Father Doug Ingle,” posted Doug Ingle Jr. “Dad passed away peacefully this evening in the presence of family. Thank You Dad for being a father, teacher and friend. Cherished loving memories I will carry the rest of my days moving forward in this journey of life. Love you Dad.”