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John Bradbury, Drummer for the Specials, Dead at 62

INDIO, CA - APRIL 16: Musician John Bradbury of The Specials performs during Day 1 of the Coachella Valley Music & Art Festival 2010 held at the Empire Polo Club on April 16, 2010 in Indio, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Getty Images)

John Bradbury, drummer for U.K. ska-punk pioneers the Specials and the Specials AKA, has died, Brooklyn Vegan reports. He was 62.

An official statement from the Specials reads:

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 families sincerest wish that they are allowed the time to remember him privately.

Earlier this year, the Specials’ trombonist Emmanuel “Rico” Rodriguez died at age 80.