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
Bradbury joined the ground breaking Ska group in 1979, when he replaced original drummer, Silverton Huchinson. The group went on to chart-stardom hitting the UK charts with singles including Too Much Too Young and their staple, A Message to You, Rudy.
The hits continued with The Specials AKA, who had a top 10 hit , (Free) Nelson Mandela.
Bradbury was part of the groups reunion tour in 2009 and also the head of a band called JB Allstars.
A bad day for good music. First we lose Lemmy, now news that Brad from the Specials has passed away. RIP https://t.co/05ULhUjqS9
— Billy Bragg (@billybragg) December 29, 2015
In a statement, Bradbury’s family said:
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 28 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.
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