THE Jam drummer Rick Buckler has died at the aged of 69 after a short illness.
Rick was the drummer for the hit band from its formation in the early 1970s through to its break up in the early 1980s.
His The Jam bandmates Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton confirmed the sad news in separate statements.
Weller wrote: “I’m shocked and saddened by Rick’s passing. I’m thinking back to us all rehearsing in my bedroom in Stanley Road, Woking. To all the pubs and clubs we played at as kids, to eventually making a record.
“What a journey! We went far beyond our dreams and what we made stands the test of time. My deepest sympathy to all family and friends – P.W x.”
Bruce Foxton said: “I was shocked and devastated to hear the very sad news today. Rick was a good guy and a great drummer whose innovative drum patterns helped shape our songs.
“I’m glad we had the chance to work together as much as we did. My thoughts are with Leslie and his family at this very difficult time,”
Legendary musician Rick had been forced to cancel his recent spoken word tour due to “ongoing health issues”.
On February 1 his team posted a message about the cancellation on Facebook.
