The Pogues have paid tribute to their late drummer, Andrew 'The Clobberer' Ranken, who has passed away aged 72.
Ranken, who was a founding member of the punk legends, featured as part of their original line up in 1983. He featured on all of their albums until their initial split in 1996. As well as serving as their drummer, Ranken, nicknamed 'The Clobberer', also took on vocal duties on occasions.
His death was confirmed by The Pogues, who shared this post on social media, alongside a montage of photos of him performing over the years.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Ranken, drummer, founding member, and heartbeat of The Pogues,” their 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,” it added. “Our thoughts and love are with his family at this sad and difficult time".
Other names to pay tribute to Ranken include fellow musician, Fiachna Ó Braonáin, who wrote: “Ah so sorry to hear about Andrew’s passing… always enjoyed whenever our paths crossed”, while another fan added: "Sad to hear that the @poguesofficial drummer Andrew Ranken has passed. So many happy memories of seeing the band during my teenage years. Love to everyone".
Writing on X, Siobhan MacGowan, sister of late Pogues frontman and bandmate of Ranken's, Shane MacGowan, also paid tribute to the late musician.
"Andrew was such an important part of the story. A band brother and unbelievably talented and unique drummer", MacGowan wrote. "May he rest in peace".
One person summed it up perfectly: "The world is running out of Pogues, and that's very sad. RIP".
Last November, The Pogues also shared their first ever live performance of 'Fairytale Of New York'.
This performance was taken from the band's live performance at Glasgow Barrowland on 17 December 1987, and has been revived by original producer Steve Lillywhite, who has helped to bring new life to the track. More on this from Nova here.
