BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay delivered heartbreaking news during the recent episode of the popular morning programme, announcing the passing of musician Rick Buckler.
The Wednesday show (February 19) took a sombre turn as Jon and his co-host Sarah Campbell shared details about drummer Rick, who gained fame as a member of the English rock band The Jam.
Jon broke the news, stating: “It’s quarter past seven, and some sad news: Rick Buckler, a drummer with The Jam, has died at the age of 69.
As the BBC programme showcased a clip of Rick playing with The Jam in his younger days, Sarah added: “He was part of the band’s classic line-up alongside bass player Bruce Foxton and lead singer and guitarist Paul Weller, who said he was ‘shocked and saddened.'”
Following the short clip of Rick in his element, Jon said: “Rick Buckler there.”
According to reports, Rick died following a brief illness. He was a member of The Jam from its formation in 1972 until its breakup ten years later. While the band never fully reformed, Buckler and bassist Bruce did reunite on many occasions.
In their heyday, The Jam released six studio albums, with Rick drumming on all of them. His contributions included the highly praised All Mod Cons (1978) and Sound Affects (1980).
The band achieved 18 consecutive UK Top 40 hits, including four number ones, throughout their career and topped the UK album chart with The Gift. The Jam is remembered for iconic songs like Town Called Malice, Going Underground, and Down In The Tube Station At Midnight.