The New York Times recently reported the passing of Viv Prince, the eccentric and influential drummer known for his wild performances with The Pretty Things in the 1960s. Prince’s death at age 84 marks the end of an era for one of rock’s most volatile but charismatic drummers.
Vivian Martin Prince was born on August 9, 1941, in Loughborough, England, and over time, his notoriety grew as much for his unpredictable antics as for his drumming skills. In his relatively brief stint with The Pretty Things (1964–65), Prince helped cement the band’s reputation for raw, unrestrained energy. His performances—they were chaotic, sometimes confrontational—helped lay groundwork for the wild rock persona that would follow in Keith Moon’s wake.
Some of Prince’s most notorious moments weren’t on stage: stories abound of him smuggling dead crustaceans in luggage, provoking airline staff, and spiraling into disorder during tours. His behavior ultimately led to his dismissal from the band. Despite that, his legacy endured. Decades later, Jack White paid tribute to Prince on Instagram, calling him “wild and full of abandon” and noting that he played an early role in inspiring rock’s crazier side.
While Prince only appeared on two Pretty Things albums—The Pretty Things and Get the Picture?—his influence extended far beyond his recorded output. The dramatic, uncontrolled live performances of the group owe much to the example he set. After leaving the band, Prince’s musical presence waned, though the lore around him grew. His final years were spent in Portugal, where he passed away.
As we reflect on Viv Prince’s life, it’s clear his mark on rock is difficult to quantify. He was more than a drummer—he was a force of nature, a precursor to the “crazy rock star” archetype that followed. His death invites a reexamination of how chaos and creativity often dance together in rock history.
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