Rick Bakler’s Passing
Rick Bakler, a drummer for Jam, passed away at the age of 69 after a brief illness.
Tributes from Colleagues
The news of the legendary musician’s passing was confirmed by his bandmates Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton, who each shared heartfelt statements regarding his death. This announcement comes a few weeks after Bakler had to cancel his tour due to ongoing health issues.
“I am in shock and saddened by the death of Rick. I remember us all rehearsing in my bedroom on Stanley Road, Woking, for all the pubs and clubs in which we played in our youth, ultimately leading to our record. What a journey!” Weller wrote on Twitter on his official X/Twitter account.
We went far beyond our dreams, and what we have done is a time test.
My deepest sympathy for the whole family and friends – PW X
(2/4 – PW) pic.twitter.com/bdrolssoht
– Paul Weller (@paulwellerhq) 18 February 2025
He continued: “We went far beyond our dreams, and what we did is in the test of time. My deepest sympathy for the whole family and friends.”
Bass player Foxton also honored his bandmate, expressing his shock and sadness on X/Twitter: “I was shocked and devastated to hear the very sad news today. Rick was a great guy and an incredible drummer whose innovative drum patterns helped shape our songs.”
He added: “I am glad that we had the opportunity to work together as hard as we did. My thoughts are with Leslie and his family during this extremely difficult time.”
I am glad that we had the opportunity to work together as hard as we did.
My thoughts with Leslie and his family in this very difficult time – Bruce Foxton
(4/4) pic.twitter.com/aqgimiqm1
– Bruce Foxton (@brucefoxton) 18 February 2025
Check out more tributes below.
The greatest group in history #TheJam
Lost his first participant
The first of the trio that has changed my life in so many positive ways to pass is Rick Bakler, and I am shocked and sore; he was only 69 years old.The music that he created @paulwellerhq AND @BruceFoxton has … pic.twitter.com/23ipxjbcn4
– Liverpool 365: Moose (@passnmoVemooose) 18 February 2025
Rick Bakler was part of the inspiration with Jam that made me create music.
Rest well, brother!
– Simmons and Deer (@simmonsstags) 18 February 2025
RIP Rick Bakler, his drums were an important aspect of Jam’s sound. https://t.co/zocnvihi8p
– Matt (@mjp2509) 18 February 2025
A Brief History of Rick Bakler
Born on December 6, 1955, Bakler joined Jam in the early ’70s and remained with the iconic group, alongside Weller and Foxton, until their breakup in 1982. Jam produced 18 consecutive hits from 1977 to 1982, including four number ones – “Going Underground,” “Start!”, “A Town Called Malice,” and “Beat Surrender.” The band was also pivotal in the Mod Revival movement in the UK.
After the disbandment, Bakler formed the group Time UK. Following their breakup, he shifted to production and operated a studio in Islington. In the mid-’90s, Bakler took a break from music to work as a special carpenter.
He returned to music in 2005, forming a group that exclusively played classic Jam material. Foxton joined him in 2007, and they toured as Jam until Foxton left in 2009, concerned about being perceived as a tribute band.
Bakler continued to engage in various roles within the music industry and spent many years writing about the history of Jam.
He is survived by his wife, Lesli, and their two children, Jason and Holly.
https://www.nme.com/news/music/paul-weller-leads-tribute-to-the-jam-drummer-rick-buckler-who-has-died-aged-69-im-shocked-and-saddened-3839169?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=paul-weller-leads-tribute-to-the-jam-drummer-rick-buckler-who-has-died-aged-69-im-shocked-and-saddened
