Lifetime Award

Quite possibly the most influential musical artists to ever emerge from San Diego, Iron Butterfly were the original heavy metal band, inspiring legions of musicians in their wake. Formed in 1966, the group signed to Atco Records the following year. They ultimately released six (of 11 to date) albums for the label, in the process scoring a hit with one of the most recognizable pieces of music ever recorded, “In A Gadda Da Vida.” The songs July 31, 1968, #30 chart placing, with an edited version of the full, mind blowing, 17 minute album take, belies the influence the tune has had in the decades since it was released. Beyond introducing the extended drum solo to the rock music lexicon, “In A Gadda Da Vida’s” namesake album is a multi-platinum seller, and the song is now a part of pop culture. It can be heard in reruns of Seinfeld, at screenings of NightMare On Elm Street or covered by groups ranging from the corner garage band to Slayer.

Iron Butterfly’s original members were Doug Ingle (vocals, keyboards),Jack Pinney (drums), Greg Willis (bass), and Danny Weis (guitar), with frontman Darryl DeLoach, joining soon after. The band quickly experienced several membership changes, with the line up by the time of “In A Gadda Da Vida” consisting of Ingle, Lee Dorman (bass), Ron Bushy (drums), and Erik Brann (guitar). The ensuing years brought further changes in the band with the final album of new music released in 1975, though their songs have been reissued countless times over the decades. Iron Butterfly continues to be a popular live attraction, particularly in Europe, where the band, now helmed by Bushy, begins a tour on September 22.

This year the San Diego Music Awards are proud to honor the members and accomplishments of Iron Butterfly with a Lifetime Achievement Award.