Andrew Ranken, the drummer for the famed English/Celtic punk band the Pogues, has died. He was 72.
Band members Spider Stacy, Jem Finer and James Fearnley announced Ranken’s passing in a post on the group’s Instagram account.
“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. — Jem, James & Spider”
No cause of death was given, but Rolling Stone UK reported that Ranken had been in ill health and had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Ranken joined the band in 1983, one year after it was founded and played on all of the group’s studio albums, released between 1984 and 1996. In addition to drums he also played harmonica and occasionally took lead vocals.
The band garnered acclaim in the 1980s and ‘90s for their blend of traditional Irish music and punk rock in such songs as “Streams of Whisky,” “If I Should Fall From Grace With God,” and “Boat Train.” The group is probably best known for their popular holiday song “Fairytale of New York,”
Founding member and lead singer and songwriter Shane MacGowan died in 2023 at the age of 65. Bassist Darryl Hunt died in 2022 and guitarist Philip Chevron died in 2013.