The drummer for the legendary 2 Tone ska band was 62.
John Bradbury, drummer for highly influential ska band The Specials has died. The news was first shared via the band’s Twitter page and was later confirmed by his family.
Bradbury joined the band in 1979 following the departure of original drummer Silverton Hutchinson and played on their iconic self-titled debut that same year. He continued with the band through their reformation as the Special AKA until their disbandment in 1984. He rejoined during the band’s reunion in 2008 and remained a member of the group
The cause of death has not been revealed. In a statement his family wrote:
“It is with deepest regret that we have to announce the very sad news that our much loved husband and father John ‘Brad’ Bradbury passed away on Monday the 28th of December.
“Brad’s drumming was the powerhouse behind The Specials and it was seen as a key part to the Two Tone sound. He was much respected in the world of drumming and his style of reggae and ska was seen as genuinely ground breaking when The Specials first hit the charts in 1979.
“He was an integral part of The Specials reforming in 2008 and toured with them extensively up to the present day. His contribution to the world of music can not be understated and he will much missed by family, friends and fans alike. It is the family’s sincerest wish that they are allowed the time to remember him privately.”
It is with deep regret that we say goodbye to our great friend, the world’s greatest drummer, our beloved Brad. RIP pic.twitter.com/yYBFyQmuLy
— thespecials (@thespecials) December 29, 2015
