Andrew Ranken, Drummer for The Pogues, Dies at 72

Andrew Ranken, the drummer and a founding member of the band The Pogues, has passed away at the age of 72. The band announced his death, remembering him as the 'heartbeat' of their music. He was known for his drumming style that mixed punk and folk.
By Newsroom | Music, Obituaries |

The music world is observing the passing of Andrew Ranken, the drummer and a founding member of the influential band The Pogues. Ranken, known to fans as "The Clobberer," died at the age of 72. His departure marks the loss of a key figure in the band's sound and history, known for a distinct drumming style that merged punk energy with folk traditions.

Ranken was an integral part of The Pogues from their inception in 1983 until 1996, and rejoined the group from 2001 to 2014. The band confirmed his death through social media, releasing a statement that highlighted his contributions to their music and his personal qualities. Tributes from fellow musicians and those connected to the band have followed, reflecting on his talent and impact.

Andrew Ranken dead: The Pogues drummer and founding member dies aged 72 - 1

Timeline of Significance

Andrew Ranken was a cornerstone of The Pogues from their formative years. His involvement began in 1983, placing him among the original members who shaped the band's unique musical identity.

Read More: Gorillaz Announce New Album 'The Mountain' About Friends and Life

  • 1983: Ranken co-founds The Pogues, contributing his drumming and percussion skills.

  • 1984 - 1996: He participates in the recording of all the band's official albums, from their debut "Red Roses for Me" to "Pogue Mahone." His rhythmic contributions are considered central to the band's celebrated sound, a blend of punk and traditional folk music.

  • 1996: Ranken departs from the band.

  • 2001 - 2014: He returns to The Pogues, continuing his role as drummer.

  • Recent Years: Ranken had stepped back from recent live performances due to health issues. Fontaines D.C. drummer Tom Cull had reportedly filled in for him during some of the band's recent tours.

  • February 2024: The passing of Andrew Ranken is announced at the age of 72.

Personal Health and Band Activities

Reports indicate that Andrew Ranken had experienced periods of ill health. Specifically, he was known to have suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition affecting lung function.

Read More: Actress Camilla Carr Dies at 83

Andrew Ranken dead: The Pogues drummer and founding member dies aged 72 - 2

  • The band's recent 40th-anniversary tour celebrating the album "Rum Sodomy and the Lash" featured surviving members Spider Stacy, James Fearnley, and Jem Finer.

  • Ranken's absence from some of these later performances was attributed to his health concerns.

Musical Contributions and Legacy

Ranken's drumming was a defining characteristic of The Pogues' music. His style is frequently described as powerful and distinctive, forming the rhythmic backbone of many of their most recognized songs.

  • He played drums, percussion, and harmonica, and also provided backing vocals at times.

  • His work is present on all of the band's official recordings during his tenure, including their popular Christmas hit "Fairytale of New York."

  • Some sources note that Ranken also wrote songs, with one mention of him singing "Thousands Are Sailing" during a US tour.

  • Siobhan MacGowan, sister of late Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan, acknowledged Ranken's significant role in the band's narrative.

Tributes from Band and Associates

The official announcement of Andrew Ranken's death came from The Pogues via social media. The band expressed profound sadness and offered a heartfelt tribute to their former bandmate.

Read More: Britney Spears Sells Rights to Her Music

Andrew Ranken dead: The Pogues drummer and founding member dies aged 72 - 3

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew Ranken, drummer, founding member, and heartbeat of The Pogues. 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."

Other tributes have emerged from individuals connected to the band and the music community:

  • Paul Snowdon described Ranken as "A band brother and unbelievably talented and unique drummer."

  • Matthew Reed Baker shared his sorrow, calling the news "sad news."

  • Siobhan MacGowan stated, "Andrew was such an important part of the story."

The band's statement concluded by sending "thoughts and love are with his family at this sad and difficult time."

Andrew Ranken dead: The Pogues drummer and founding member dies aged 72 - 4

Musical Associations Beyond The Pogues

While best known for his work with The Pogues, Andrew Ranken was also associated with other musical projects.

Read More: Journalism Giant Myra MacPherson Dies at 91: Her Unflinching Truths Will Haunt Us Forever

  • He was a member of the blues band The Mysterious Wheels.

  • Details about his early musical development mention he started playing drums at age 14 and met Pogues founders Shane MacGowan and Jem Finer in London's Kings Cross area.

Context of The Pogues' History

The Pogues formed in 1983 and gained prominence for their unique blend of punk rock, Irish folk music, and traditional ballads. The band achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim, particularly with songs like "Fairytale of New York." The group experienced periods of internal change and faced the loss of other key members, including lead guitarist Philip Chevron, who died in 2013 after a battle with cancer.

Sources:

Read More: Courtney Love's Post Comes Out as New Claims About Kurt Cobain's Death Are Made

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Andrew Ranken?
Andrew Ranken was the drummer and a founding member of the famous band The Pogues. He was 72 when he passed away.
Q: When was Andrew Ranken part of The Pogues?
He was with the band from 1983 to 1996, and then again from 2001 to 2014. He helped shape their sound.
Q: What was Andrew Ranken known for?
He was known for his strong drumming style that blended punk music with Irish folk music. The band said he was the 'heartbeat' of their music.
Q: Did Andrew Ranken have health problems?
Yes, reports say he had lung problems called COPD. This is why he could not play in some of the band's recent shows.