BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay delivered heartbreaking news during a recent episode of the popular morning programme, announcing the death of musician Rick Buckler.
On Wednesday’s show (February 19), the mood turned sombre as Jon and his co-host Sarah Campbell shared details about drummer Rick, who gained fame as a member of the English rock band The Jam.
Jon broke the news: “It’s quarter past seven, and some sad news. Rick Buckler, a drummer with The Jam, has died at the age of 69.”
As the BBC program showcased a clip of Rick playing with The Jam in his younger days, Sarah added: “He was part of the band’s classic line-up alongside bass player Bruce Foxton and lead singer and guitarist Paul Weller, who said he was ‘shocked and saddened.'”
After the brief footage of Rick in his prime, Jon gently moved the conversation forward, saying: “Rick Buckler there.”
Reports indicate that Rick died after a short illness. He was a key member of The Jam from its inception in 1972 until it disbanded a decade later.
Although the band never fully reunited, Buckler and bassist Bruce frequently performed together. During their peak, The Jam released six studio albums featuring Rick on drums.
His contributions included the critically acclaimed All Mod Cons (1978) and Sound Affects (1980).
The Jam, a band renowned for their string of hits, achieved 18 consecutive UK Top 40 singles, including four number ones, and soared to the top of the album charts with ‘The Gift’. They are celebrated for timeless tracks such as ‘Town Called Malice’, ‘Going Underground’, and ‘Down In The Tube Station At Midnight’.
Following the death of drummer Rick, frontman Paul shared his grief in a heartfelt Facebook post: “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!”
He reflected on their remarkable journey from humble beginnings to creating enduring music, adding, “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.”
Rick is survived by his wife and two children, Jason and Holly, in Woking.
BBC Breakfast continues to air every day from 6am on BBC One.