The Pogues drummer Andrew Ranken dead at 72

Andrew Ranken, drummer for The Pogues, died on Feb. 10 at age 72, the band announced Feb. 11.

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

The statement, signed by founding members Spider Stacy, James Fearnley and Jem Finer, added: "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."

Ranken’s cause of death has not been confirmed, though Rolling Stone reported he had been ill for years and had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He joined the Pogues in March 1983, one year after the band formed in King’s Cross, London, replacing drummer John Hasler.

andrew ranken, the pogues, drummer, founding member, spider stacy, james fearnley, jem finer, copd, king's cross, london