Andrew Ranken of The Pogues died on Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the age of 72.
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The surviving members of the Celtic punk band, Spider Stacy, James Fearnley and Jem Finer, shared the news of the drummer's death in a statement on social media on Wednesday, Feb. 11. The cause of death has not been confirmed, per Page Six.
"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Ranken, drummer, founding member, and heartbeat of The Pogues," the post read.
"Andrew, thank you for everything, for your friendship, your wit and your generosity of spirit, and of course for the music, forever a true friend and brother.
"Our thoughts and love are with his family at this sad and difficult time."
Andrew Ranken Didn't Want To Be in The Pogues at First
Known as "The Clobberer," Ranken joined The Pogues in 1983, a year after the band formed in London. He initially declined frontman Shane MacGowan and Finer's invitation to join the band, as he was the lead singer of The Operation at the time. Ranken eventually changed his mind.
He stayed with the group until its initial breakup in 1996. When it reformed five years later, Ranken stepped back behind the kit. He also played harmonica and percussion and provided vocals. The group broke up again in 2014 after the death of guitarist Phillip Chevron.
When The Pogues reformed again in 2024 for a tour celebrating the 40th anniversary of its breakthrough album, Rum Sodomy & the Lash, Ranken didn't take part due to health issues. He was replaced by Fontaines D.C.'s Tom Coll. The drummer suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for a number of years.
In addition to his work with The Pogues, Ranken also performed with the groups The Mysterious Wheels and hKippers.
Tributes for Ranken Have Been Pouring In
The sister of The Pogues' late frontman MacGowan, Siobhan, wrote on X that "Andrew was such an important part of the story. A band brother and unbelievably talented and unique drummer. May he rest in peace."
One fan wrote, "Such very sad news. I have so many marvellous memories of Andrew, not least his beautiful singing of Danny Boy in a quiet bar in New Orleans. A wonderful man and a wonderful talent."
