Rick Buckler, drummer of famous English Rock band The Jam, has passed away today at the age of 69. His former bandmate and front man of the band, Paul Weller, took to Instagram to announce the news. In a carousel of pictures old and new, the singer shared: “I’m deeply saddened at the news of the passing of Rick Buckler, my sincere condolences go to his family at this difficult time. From our rudimentary beginnings, the band evolved into the powerful force that it became, Rick’s evolution as a drummer, such a vital part of that. I only saw Rick a few times in recent years but I know his easy-going nature will be sadly missed….the beat goes on….rest peacefully Rick – Steve Brookes”.
The drummer was part of the band from their formation in the 70s up to their breakup in 1982. Although the band never fully reunited, Buckler played alongside Foxton, the bass player, on numerous occasions. The Jam released six studio albums on which Rick played, including the critically-acclaimed ‘All Mod Cons’ (1978) and ‘Sound Affects’ (1980).
Paul’s Instagram post also included a statement from Bruce Foxton. The 69-year-old musician has paid a glowing tribute to Rick, describing him as a “good guy and a great drummer”. By the time the band split, they were one of the biggest in the UK singles chart, reflecting their popularity at the time, especially with their song ‘Town Called Malice’.
Post The Jam, Rick Buckler formed a number of bands including Time UK, Sharp which also featured Foxton as a member and The Gift, named after The Jam’s last album and playing music from the band’s catalogue. From 2007 to 2009, he also toured with a band called From The Jam, a band playing covers from the group and later joined again by Foxton who to this day still tours with them.
The drummer lived with his wife and two children, Jason and Holly. He wrote a number of books on the history of The Jam, along with his own autobiography That’s Entertainment: My Life In The Jam, which was released in 2015.
The Surrey born drummer died after a short illness.
