Denny Doherty of the Mamas and Papas Dies at Age 66

Family members say he had been suffering kidney problems after undergoing surgery.

The Mamas and the Papas were the quintessential Sixties band with such hits as California Dreamin’ and Monday, Monday. Doherty’s smooth and sweet tenor voice was a major part of their sound.

John Phillips, the band’s leader died in 2001 at the age of 65. Cass Elliot, died in 1974 of a heart attack at age 32.

The only surviving member of the band is Michelle Phillips, who went on to be an actress in later years. She was a major character in the hit TV series Knot’s Landing. In fact, I just saw her a week or so ago at the Wine House in Los Angeles. She is still strikingly beautiful at age 62.

Here is a clip of the band in their heyday with Denny singing lead.