Legendary The Jam drummer Rick Buckler dies aged 69

Rick Buckler has died at the age of 69. 

Known as the former drummer of The Jam, the musician's death was confirmed by his former bandmates via social media. 

According to the BBC, Buckler's family described him as a "loving husband, father and grandfather" who will be "greatly missed."

Watch the video above.

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The statement explained that he "passed away peacefully on Monday evening in Woking after a short illness with family by his side". A cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Born on December 6, 1955, Buckler found stardom at a young age after joining The Jam in the early 1970s. 

The Jam rose to prominence amid the rise in popularity of punk in the new wave era, and the band was credited for its role in the revival of England's mod music and fashion scenes.

The music group was a massive success, earning 18 consecutive UK Top 40 singles during their time together. 

During the mid-'80s, Buckler joined forces with former The Jam bandmate Bruce Foxton and formed a new band called Sharp with Jimmy Edwards.

The drummer went on to work in production before leaving the music industry to work in business. 

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Buckler lived in Woking with his wife Lesley and their two children, Jason, welcomed in 1986, and Holly, born in 1993.

Paul Weller announced to X: "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," Weller concluded. 

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Fellow band member Bruce Foxton's statement was also in the X thread, with the star writing: "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.

Foxton concluded: "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."

Per the Express, Buckler cancelled his recent spoken word tour due to "ongoing health issues."

A post informing fans of the cancellation said: "Rick and his team want all the fans of Rick and The Jam to know that due to ongoing health issues Rick has been advised to take a break from touring his spoken word events booked for the first quarter of 2025.

"Rick has been really touched by the number of fans who have booked to see the shows, but presently he has been advised to rest, repair and build his physical strength in order to deal with touring up and down the UK.

"Rick was really excited to bring his updated 'in conversation' show to life in so many new venues and to both loyal fans and new audiences.

It concluded: "Once again thank you for you continued love, support and understanding. We will keep you up to date as time goes along. Rick looks forward to seeing you all down the road."

The former musician is survived by his wife and their two children. 

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