Remembering Rick Buckler: The Heartbeat of The Jam Dies at 69
The music world is in mourning as Rick Buckler, the iconic drummer of the influential British rock band The Jam, passed away on February 17 at the age of 69. His management company confirmed that he died peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by family in Woking, England. Buckler’s contributions to music went far beyond just keeping the beat—he helped shape the sound and success of The Jam, which skyrocketed to fame in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
Team Jam, comprised of Buckler, frontman Paul Weller, and bassist Bruce Foxton, was a cultural phenomenon, racking up an impressive 18 consecutive Top 40 singles in the UK. Hit after hit, they dominated the charts, including four singles that hit the top spot: “Going Underground,” “Start,” “Town Called Malice,” and “Beat Surrender.” They were musical chameleons, weaving between the punk ethos and the emerging new wave sound while forever paying homage to their Mod roots.
Despite most of their success being in the UK, The Jam’s blend of soul, R&B, and punk did manage to captivate some U.S. audiences. “Town Called Malice” stands out as their only significant U.S. chart hit, peaking at No. 31, with its catchy Motown-influenced style and witty lyrics reflecting working-class struggles.
The Jam disbanded in 1982 under controversial circumstances, with Weller’s departure not sitting well with Buckler and Foxton, who were keen to keep the band alive. Weller later enjoyed his own success with The Style Council, while Buckler and Foxton briefly teamed up again for From the Jam in the mid-2000s. Buckler also shared his journey and experiences in his memoir, *That’s Entertainment: My Life in the Jam*, published in 2015.
Born on December 6, 1955, Buckler’s talent and dedication extended beyond his drumming. He leaves behind a legacy that influenced a generation of musicians. Fellow bandmates have expressed their grief on social media, underscoring the profound loss felt by those who knew him.
As the tributes pour in, it’s clear Buckler’s musical legacy will continue to resonate. To many, he wasn’t just a drummer; he was the backbone of The Jam, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene that won’t soon be forgotten.
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, The Guardian, NME
