Stereo Embers is reeling from the news that John “Brad” Bradbury, the drummer of The Specials has died.

He was 62.

The Coventry band posted the news on Twitter early this morning (Dec 29).

A statement released by The Specials read: “Brad’s drumming was the powerhouse behind the Specials, and it was seen as a key part to the 2 Tone sound.”

It went on to add: “He was much respected in the world of drumming, and his style of reggae and ska was seen as genuinely ground-breaking when the Specials first hit the charts in 1979,” the statement continued. “He was an integral part of the Specials re-forming in 2008, and [he] toured with them extensively up to the present day. His contribution to the world of music can not be understated and he will much missed by family, friends and fans alike.”

The Specials formed in 1977, but Bradbury didn’t join the group until original drummer Silverton Hutchinson left in 1979.

Influenced by Al Jackson Jr. and Sly Dunbar, Bradbury was a drummer of ungraspable virtuosity. A fan of Northern Soul, Bradbury played in JB’s Allstars and Selecter.

A producer and an activist, Bradbury was a man of many talents and he will be deeply missed.