The Beat’s Ranking Roger has died

“He fought & fought & fought, Roger was a fighter,” the band wrote in tribute to their vocalist

The Beat vocalist Ranking Roger has died, aged 56.

The musician, real name Roger Charlery, passed away earlier today (March 26). A post on The Beat’s Facebook page confirmed his passing, adding: “He fought & fought & fought, Roger was a fighter.

“Roger’s family would like to thank everyone for their constant support during this tough time,” the post concluded. See it below.

“He fought & fought & fought, Roger was a fighter.” Sadly Roger past away a few hours ago peacefully at his home…

Posted by The Beat on Tuesday, March 26, 2019

Roger was diagnosed with two brain tumours and lung cancer following a mini stroke he suffered in August 2018.

Roger, who was born in Birmingham in 1963, was best known for his work in The Beat (known in North America as ‘The English Beat’), who released three albums during their first period together: ‘I Just Can’t Stop It’ (1980), ‘Wha’ppen?’ (1981) and ‘Special Beat Service’ (1982). Among their best-known songs are the likes of ‘Stand Down Margaret’, ‘Mirror In The Bathroom’ and ‘Drowning’.

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As well as The Beat, Roger was also a prominent member of General Public, who he co-fronted with The Beat’s Dave Wakeling. He also released a string of solo albums, kicking off in 1988 with ‘Radical Departure’. Roger also regularly performed live with Sting.

A biography about Roger’s life in music, which he co-wrote, will be published later this year.

Tributes to Roger have been pouring in on social media since the news of his passing was confirmed earlier this evening – see a selection of those below.

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