Reggae band Aswad revealed that its vocalist, Angus "Drummie Zeb" Gaye, died. He was 62.
On Friday, Aswad penned a statement on Instagram to deliver the heartbreaking news about its lead vocalist. Gaye was reportedly loved and respected by everyone because of his inspiring life and career.
It also uploaded various clips of the singer while performing with the band.
"It is with deepest regret and profound loss that we have to announce the passing of our brother Angus 'Drummie' Gaye. Drummie was the lead vocalist for the iconic band Aswad and is much loved and respected by both family, friends and peers alike," the caption reads.
Aswad also told its fans that details about Angus Gaye's cause of death and his funeral would be posted at a later date. The post earned heartfelt messages of tribute from fans, but some also shared their heartbreak on different social media platforms.
Last June I was so fortunate to do photos when #Aswad came to #Gibraltar.
— David J Díaz (@DJDiaz88) September 2, 2022
Earlier that afternoon I was fortunate to interview Angus Gaye aka Drummie Zeb and spoke to him about their return and to no surprise, he was a gentleman.
Very sad to read of his passing.
RIP Sir ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ZjSwrkkZu0
R.I.P Drummie Zeb from Aswad (born Angus Gaye; 24 September 1959, in London - died 2nd September 2022).
— BRITAIN'S GOT REGGAE (@BGReggae) September 2, 2022
He is the drummer and lead singer for the reggae band Aswad, as well as being a record producer.
Sincere Condolences going out to his family, friends & fans that loved him. pic.twitter.com/SwqMYIDsnP
The drummer for the legendary British reggae group Aswad has died.
— Hopewell Chin’ono (@daddyhope) September 2, 2022
Drummie Zeb as he was known in the music circles bcoz of his drumming skills was the lead singer on one of their international hits, Don’t Turn Around.
Drummie Zeb was 62 years old.
His real name was Angus Gaye. pic.twitter.com/qxx7BXpYsm
So sad to see that Angus Gaye, lead singer of Aswad has passed away - aged only 62.
— Stephanie B (@tarynabell) September 2, 2022
He went to Holland Park School before I went there. Aswad music brings back old school memories. pic.twitter.com/QiBZ3q1gl3
Gaye's passing came weeks before his supposed 63rd birthday on September 24.
Angus Gaye's Record-Breaking Career With Aswad
Gaye started his career with the reggae band when the trio met and formed Aswad. The late vocalist was also responsible for the drums, while Brinsley "Dan" Forde and Tony "Gad" Robinson served as vocals/rhythm guitar and bassist, respectively.
In the 1970s, they set a new record by becoming the first reggae band to ever signed a contract with an international label, Island Records.
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From there, Aswad released 15 albums that made it one of the most beloved reggae bands. Throughout its two decades of career, it successfully released hit songs like "Give a Little Love" and "Don't Turn Around."
Aswad also contributed to the Free Nelson Mandela campaign when it released "Set Them Free."
On its website, the band's management, Spaine Music, said that Gaye's band remains relevant in the 21st century. It continuously attended festivals in the UK and around the globe although it has been decades since it debuted.
Spaine Music added that Aswad is still "the purveyors of the UK reggae scene" - something it might continue with or without Gaye.
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