Legendary actor and musician David Kaff, best known as keyboardist Viv Savage in the cult classic This Is Spinal Tap, has died peacefully in his sleep at 79 on July 11, according to his band, Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom.
Born David Kaffinetti on April 17, 1946, in England, he co-founded the progressive‑rock band Rare Bird, releasing five albums between 1969–1975, including the hit “Sympathy.” He later worked as a session musician, contributing to Chuck Berry’s The London Chuck Berry Sessions, and played in bands such as Model Citizenz and Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom.
Kaff is remembered for his warm, charming portrayal of Viv Savage, delivering iconic lines like “Have a good time… all the time,” and performing on Saturday Night Live in 1984. He remained musically and artistically active, sharing his visual art online during the COVID‑19 pandemic.