Rick Buckler

2025 - 2 - 18

Goodbye to a Rhythm Legend: The Jam's Rick Buckler Passes Away at 69

British rock - Bruce Foxton - drumming - mod revival - music legacy - Paul Weller - Rick Buckler - rock history - The Jam

The music world mourns the loss of Rick Buckler, iconic drummer of The Jam, who passed away at 69. We reminisce over his beats that defined a generation!

The music world has lost a true icon with the passing of Rick Buckler, the legendary drummer of the popular British band, The Jam. He sadly passed away at the age of 69 after a short illness, as confirmed by his bandmates Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton on social media. Buckler's unmistakable sound and energetic beats helped propel The Jam into the spotlight during their stellar career from the early 1970s until their breakup in 1982, where they managed to release five incredible albums and launch hits like 'That's Entertainment' and 'Going Underground.'

Born Paul Richard Buckler in Woking, Surrey, he joined forces with Weller and Foxton to create a trio that embraced the passion and fervour of the punk era while still delivering catchy pop melodies. His drumming style was heavily influenced by the likes of The Who, and Buckler's rhythmic precision became a signature feature of The Jam's sound. His contributions extended beyond just drumming; he was integral in shaping the band's identity through the years and often contributed to their energetic stage presence that delighted fans across the UK.

As news of Rick's passing spreads, a multitude of tributes are pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike. Paul Weller himself expressed his shock and sadness, recalling fond memories of their early rehearsals and the exhilarating collaborations they enjoyed during their rise to fame. Many remember Buckler not just as a drummer, but as the heartbeat behind some of the most quintessential tracks that resonated with the youth of the time. Friends, colleagues, and fans alike are coming together to honour this extraordinary talent whose legacy will undeniably live on through his music.

Buckler's influence on the music scene transcended The Jam, inspiring a new generation of artists and drummers. Despite the band's relatively short lifespan, their impact was significant, often cited as one of the pioneers of the mod revival movement. Did you know that The Jam were the first group to have a record on the UK Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks with their breakthrough song 'Going Underground'? Moreover, the band was often associated with themes of working-class life, which resonated widely among fans during the tumultuous periods of the late 70s and early 80s. Rick Buckler remains an important figure not only in The Jam's history but in the broader narrative of British music.