Jonathan Melvoin

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Jonathan Melvoin (December 6, 1961 - July 12, 1996) was the touring keyboardist for The Smashing Pumpkins during their worldwide tour for the album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. He was the brother of Susannah and Wendy Melvoin of Prince and the Revolution. He was first and foremost a talented drummer, and described often by friends and relatives as one of those people who could play anything. He performed with many punk bands in the 80's such as the Dickies, and also made musical contributions to many of Wendy & Lisa projects, as well as Prince & The Revolution's album Around the World in a Day.

He died in New York City after an accidental overdose of heroin he had taken with Smashing Pumpkins drummer Jimmy Chamberlin. There is much mystery and speculation about what events actually took place. Chamberlin was allegedly advised by 9-1-1 operators to put Melvoin's head in the shower in an attempt to revive him until paramedics arrived. Unfortunately, Melvoin was pronounced dead at the scene. Chamberlin was subsequently fired from the band. According to the band, there had been previous overdoses by both Melvoin and Chamberlin. Melvoin had already been fired, but was continuing to tour with The Smashing Pumpkins until the end of the tour leg. Melvoin's replacement was The Frogs' Dennis Flemion.

The Smashing Pumpkins were not invited to Melvoin's funeral. He is survived by a wife and child. Sarah McLachlan's hit single Angel was inspired by his death.