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The Pogues Lose 'Heartbeat' Drummer Andrew Ranken
11 Feb
Summary
- Pogues drummer Andrew Ranken has passed away at age 72.
- Ranken was a founding member and played with the band for years.
- His death follows that of Shane MacGowan in late 2023.
The Pogues have announced the death of their longtime drummer, Andrew Ranken, who passed away at the age of 72. Ranken was a founding member of the band and was described as its 'heartbeat.' He provided drums, percussion, harmonica, and vocals during his tenure, which spanned from 1983 to 1996 and then again from 2001 to 2014.
Tributes have flooded in for the musician, with fans remembering him as an 'unparalleled drummer and a gentleman.' His passing comes after that of Shane MacGowan, the band's iconic singer, who died in November 2023. Ranken had reportedly suffered ill health in recent years, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The band, formed in London in the 1980s and best known for their hit 'Fairytale of New York,' recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of their album 'Rum Sodomy and the Lash.' Ranken was unable to participate in the anniversary tour due to his health issues.
