San Diego, California – Doug Ingle, the co-founder of the iconic rock band Iron Butterfly, passed away at the age of 78. Ingle was the singer and organist of the band, known for hits like “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida.” He was the last surviving member of the original lineup from the late 1960s.
Iron Butterfly gained widespread success with their 17-minute epic track “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida,” which dominated FM radio in 1968. The album of the same name spent 81 weeks in the top 10 in the U.S. and was certified quadruple-platinum, becoming a standout record in Atlantic Records’ history.
Ingle’s family announced his passing on social media, sharing heartfelt messages about his life. He was not only a father but also a mentor and friend to many. Ingle was the sole surviving member of the classic edition of Iron Butterfly, which recorded the legendary “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” track.
The band’s claim to fame, “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida,” reached No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with a shorter edit of the song. However, it was the full 17-minute version that became a symbol of rock culture, making its way into various covers by artists like Slayer, the Residents, and Boney M.
Despite Iron Butterfly’s short-lived success, Ingle participated in several reunion tours in the late ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s before retiring from performing in 1999. The band’s legacy lives on through their music, with “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” remaining a classic rock favorite.
In a candid interview in 1995, Ingle reflected on the band’s turbulent history, including financial struggles that led to the group’s breakup in 1971. Despite facing setbacks, Ingle remained optimistic, learning valuable lessons from his experiences in the music industry.
The passing of Ingle marks the end of an era for Iron Butterfly, as he joins other band members like guitarist Erik Brann and drummer Ron Bushy in rock ‘n’ roll history. Ingle’s musical contributions will always be remembered, leaving a lasting impact on the world of rock music.