GoFundMe Launched To Support John Brown’s Body Drummer Tommy Benedetti After Medical Crisis

A GoFundMe has been launched to support John Brown’s Body founding drummer Tommy Benedetti as he recovers from surgery following a medical crisis last month.

Benedetti suffered a seizure on August 16 while arriving for a weekly gig in Somerville, Massachusetts after performing earlier that day on Cape Cod. According to the fundraiser, the seizure caused Benedetti to crash his car onto a sidewalk. Nobody was injured, though his car was totaled and he was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital.

Tests determined surgery was needed to address the cause of the seizure. Benedetti returned to Massachusetts General Hospital on August 22 for the procedure, which the fundraiser stated “went well.” He was discharged from the intensive care unit on August 24 and has since been recovering at home.

While Benedetti is said to be recovering well, it remains unclear when he will be able to return to work as a musician and bike courier. Donations will help pay for medical expenses, the loss of his vehicle and everyday living costs during his recovery. As of Friday afternoon, the campaign had raised more than $25,000 toward its $40,000 goal.

John Brown’s Body also urged fans to support the fundraiser, calling Benedetti “day one JBB” and noting that he has “literally played every show and every recorded note over 30 years.”

“Tommy is day one JBB, literally played every show and every recorded note over 30 years and he could use our love and support,” the band wrote. “Rest assured he’ll be back, but needs us right now.”

Benedetti has been behind the kit for John Brown’s Body throughout the reggae band’s three-decade history. He co-founded JBB with Kevin Kinsella in the mid-1990s and was part of the lineup assembled for the group’s return to the stage in 2024. John Brown’s Body celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025 with touring and a series of new recordings.

“For more than 3 decades, Tommy has been a touring musician, gracing stages around the world and continuing to record music that has brought joy, comfort, and inspiration to so many people,” organizers wrote. “Now, Tommy needs that same community of care in return.”

Donate to Benedetti’s GoFundMe.