Rick Buckler, the influential drummer of The Jam, has passed away at the age of 69. His former bandmates, Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton, confirmed the news, paying heartfelt tributes to the man whose drumming was integral to the band’s sound and success.
A Legacy Cemented in Music History
Born in Woking, England, in 1955, Rick Buckler was drawn to music from an early age. As a teenager, he joined forces with Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton, forming The Jam—a band that would go on to define the mod revival movement of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Buckler’s drumming style was both precise and powerful, complementing Weller’s sharp songwriting and Foxton’s driving basslines. Together, they created a unique sound that fused punk energy with the sophistication of classic British rock. The Jam quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances and politically charged lyrics, resonating deeply with a generation of young fans.
The band’s meteoric rise saw them release six studio albums and score 18 consecutive Top 40 singles in the UK, including chart-toppers like Going Underground, Start!, Town Called Malice, and Beat Surrender. Their influence extended far beyond their years together, with later generations of musicians citing them as a major inspiration.
Tributes from Weller and Foxton
Paul Weller, The Jam’s frontman and primary songwriter, reflected on their early days in a statement shared on social media:
“I’m shocked and saddened by Rick’s passing. I’m thinking back to us all rehearsing in my bedroom in Stanley Road, Woking. To all the pubs and clubs we played at as kids, to eventually making a record. What a journey! We went far beyond our dreams, and what we made stands the test of time. My deepest sympathy to all family and friends – P.W x”
Bruce Foxton, the band’s bassist, also expressed his sorrow, emphasizing Buckler’s contribution to The Jam’s signature sound:
“I was shocked and devastated to hear the very sad news today. Rick was a good guy and a great drummer whose innovative drum patterns helped shape our songs. I’m glad we had the chance to work together as much as we did. My thoughts are with Leslie and his family at this very difficult time – Bruce Foxton.”
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Life After The Jam
The Jam disbanded at the peak of their success in 1982, leaving fans stunned. While Weller moved on to form The Style Council and later established a successful solo career, Buckler initially stepped away from the spotlight.
He briefly played with bands like Time UK and Sharp before transitioning into production and artist management. However, his connection to The Jam’s music remained strong, and in 2005, he formed The Gift, a band dedicated to performing The Jam’s classic songs. This project later evolved into From The Jam, where he reunited with Foxton for a series of successful tours.
Despite parting ways with From The Jam in 2009, Buckler remained active in music, occasionally performing and sharing his experiences in interviews and books. His memoir, That’s Entertainment: My Life in The Jam, published in 2015, provided fans with an in-depth look at his journey through the band’s highs and lows.
Health Struggles and Final Years
In recent years, Buckler faced health challenges that impacted his ability to tour. He had recently been forced to cancel a spoken-word tour across the UK due to medical issues. Despite these setbacks, he remained deeply engaged with music, often reflecting on The Jam’s impact and the enduring love of their fanbase.
His passing marks the end of an era for those who grew up with The Jam’s music. Buckler’s drumming was the heartbeat of the band, providing a solid foundation for their sound and driving their energetic performances.
A Lasting Influence
Rick Buckler’s influence extends far beyond The Jam’s discography. His work helped shape the mod revival movement and inspired countless drummers who followed in his footsteps. Bands like Oasis, Blur, and Arctic Monkeys have all acknowledged the impact of The Jam, demonstrating the band’s lasting legacy.
For fans, Buckler’s contributions to music will never be forgotten. His precision, creativity, and unwavering dedication to his craft helped define an era, and his rhythms will continue to echo through generations of musicians and listeners alike.
As tributes pour in from fans and fellow musicians, one thing is clear: Rick Buckler was more than just a drummer—he was a key part of one of the most iconic British bands of all time. His memory will live on through the music he helped create, ensuring his place in rock history remains unshaken.
