Cream drummer Ginger Baker has died, aged 80

6 October 2019, 11:37

Ginger Baker, one of the world's most iconic drummers, has passed away at the age of 80.

Baker co-founded Cream, and also performed with Blind Faith, Hawkwind and Fela Kuti among others.

He was known for his style of drumming that used elements of jazz and rock, as well as his argumentative nature, leading to various on-stage fights with fellow musicians.

Born Peter Edward Baker, he was nicknamed Ginger for his bright red hair.

The news of his death was confirmed today (October 6) on his Twitter page, with a statement reading: "We are very sad to say that Ginger has passed away peacefully in hospital this morning. Thank you to everyone for your kind words over the past weeks."

CREAM - SUNSHINE OF YOUR LOVE (BEST VERSION)

Baker’s death comes a few days after his family confirmed he was receiving medical treatment after becoming “critically ill”.

He began playing drums aged 15, and in the 1960s, joined Blues Incorporated, meeting bassist Jack Bruce. The two fought, but became rhythm section partners in the Graham Bond Organisation. He later started rock supergroup Cream alongside Eric Claption and Jack Bruce in 1966.

In 2013, he revealed that he suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to years of smoking.