ON THE STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

‘This Is Spinal Tap’ Actor Dies at 79

The keyboardist is well-beloved for an iconic line from the 1984 comedic mockumentary film.

David Kaff, a British actor and musician who played Viv Savage in the 1984 mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, died on Friday. He was 79. Kaff, who went by Kaffinetti professionally, was a founding member of the progressive rock group Rare Bird, which released five records between 1969 and 1974. Their single “Sympathy” topped charts in France and Italy. They were among the first bands to sign with Charisma Records. Kaff is best known for his role as a keyboardist for the fictional heavy metal band Spinal Tap in Rob Reiner’s 1984 film. Kaff did not have a leading role in the movie, but uttered one of the movie’s most iconic lines, “Have a good time… all the time.” In 1991, Kaff told BAM that he felt a kinship with this character and that he “played him very close to my heart,” but “just a little bit dimmer.” Kaff continued to perform late into his life. His band Mutual of Alameda’s Wild Kingdom announced his death on Facebook on Sunday, writing, “David always had a kind word and a quick wit that would slay you where you stand. Then he’d make you smile doing it!”