DJ Fontana dead at 87 – Elvis Presley’s legendary drummer and last surviving band member passes away, his son reveals

ELVIS Presley's drummer and last remaining member of The King's original band has died.

DJ Fontana passed away in his sleep last night aged, 87, according to an emotional Facebook post from his son.

David Fontana wrote: "I told everyone that I would keep you posted. My Dad passed away in his sleep at 9:33 tonight.

"He was very comfortable with no pain. I will post more tomorrow when I have more information. We ask for privacy at this time. Thank you for your love and prayers."

Sun Studio, in Memphis Tennessee, where Elvis famously began his career, also posted on their official Facebook page: "We are extremely saddened to hear about the passing of legendary drummer D.J. Fontana. The band is all back together now."

Dominic Joseph Fontana, known as DJ, was born in 1931 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

He began playing the drums for Elvis in 1954 and worked with The King until 1968.

Fontana featured on the recording of a host of Presley's biggest hits including Heartbreak Hotel, Hound Dog, Don't Be Cruel and Jailhouse Rock.

The Louisiana native also featured on Elvis' iconic appearances on the Ed Sullivan show.

Fontana joined a band consisting of Scotty Moore on lead guitar, Bill Black on bass and Elvis Presley on rhythm guitar and vocals, originally calling themselves The Blue Moon Boys.

The band was formed by record producer Sam Phillips and would go on to record many of The King’s top tunes.

Although the band officially broke up in 1958 Fontana and Elvis continued working together throughout the 1960s.

Tributes have poured in for the rock 'n' roll legend on social media.

Comedian Tim Vine tweeted: "So DJ Fontana has left us. The last of that magic early Elvis sound."

Miami based radio host Joe Johnson posted: "Sad news in the rock n roll world. @WLRN @BeatleBrunch RT @elvisdaybyday: DJ Fontana, the beat behind the king, died last night. RIP, thank you for the music!"

Larry Pancake wrote: "I found out that DJ Fontana passed away tonight, he was Elvis’s first drummer and was in countless movies, recordings, and TV appearances with Elvis.

"Such a nice guy. Prayers for Karen Arrington Fontana and kids. #elvis"