Specials drummer John "Brad" Bradbury dies, aged 62

John "Brad" Bradbury, the drummer with The Specials, has died, aged 62.

While the cause of his passing has yet to be disclosed, his family made the following statement:

"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."

John Bradbury joined The Specials in 1979 and continued to play with them and their revised line-up, The Special AKA, to the present day. This news follows three months on after the band's trombonist, Rico Rodriguez, also died.

More News

Courting unveil new single 'We Look Good Together (Big Words)'

With their eagerly-awaited new album set to land later this month, Courting have now dropped the next cut to be lifted from their forthcoming full-... 2 months 2 weeks ago

Fat Dog return with new single 'All The Same'

Following on from the release of their standout debut single 'King Of The Slugs' last year, Fat Dog are back once again with their next new release... 2 months 2 weeks ago

Pissed Jeans announce new album 'Half Divorced'

Following on from their highly-praised 2017 LP 'Why Love Now', Pissed Jeans have now made their long-awaited return to announce a brand new studio... 2 months 2 weeks ago

Tatyana announces new album 'It's Over'

Following on from the release of her highly-praised 2022 debut LP 'Treat Me Right', Tatyana has now announced her plans for a new studio album,... 2 months 2 weeks ago

Sleater-Kinney unveil new single 'Untidy Creature'

With their eagerly-awaited new album landing later this month, Sleater-Kinney have now dropped the next cut to be lifted from their forthcoming full-... 2 months 3 weeks ago

Abby Sage announces debut album 'The Rot'

Following on from the glowing response to her much-loved singles 'Milk' and 'Hunger' last year, Abby Sage has now announced her plans for her eagerly... 2 months 3 weeks ago

Colouring unveils new single 'Love To You, Mate'

With his eagerly-awaited new album landing next month, Colouring has now dropped the next cut to be lifted from his forthcoming full-length. The... 2 months 3 weeks ago

The Last Dinner Party share new single 'Caesar On A TV Screen'

With their eagerly-awaited new album due out early next month, The Last Dinner Party have now dropped the next cut to be lifted from their... 2 months 3 weeks ago

Sea Girls announce new album 'Midnight Butterflies'

Following on from their much-loved 2022 sophomore LP 'Homesick', Sea Girls have now announced their plans for a new studio album, arriving in the... 2 months 3 weeks ago