Jon Brookes, the drummer and founding member of UK indie rock band The Charlatans, has passed away at the age of 44 after a battle with brain cancer.
The band has released this official statement:
“It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Jon Brookes, the drummer with The Charlatans, died this morning aged 44.
“Following a seizure on tour in Philadelphia in 2010, Jon had been receiving treatment for a brain tumour and had undergone several operations, although he had been working on new material with the band over the summer.. He passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning with his family at his bedside.
“Jon was a founding member of The Charlatans, who formed in the West Midlands in 1989. He was much loved by those who knew him and regarded as one of the finest drummers of his generation and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
“Jon was a brilliant drummer, an inspiration, a founding member of The Charlatans, part of our family and a friend to everyone in and around the band. Losing someone who was always so full of life is a tragedy that will be shared by so many. Our thoughts are with Debbie and all of Jon’s family.” – The Charlatans
Tim Burgess, lead singer of The Charlatans posted on Twitter, “Jon Brookes 1968 – 2013. A Dad, a brother, a Charlatan, a son, a drummer and a friend”.
Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr tweeted, “Such sad news about the death of Jon Brookes. Like all of The Charlatans Jon was one of the good guys. Love and respect. Johnny”.
Peter Hook of New Order/Joy Division wrote, “So sad to hear about Jon Brookes, Charlatans drummer. Lovely man,such great company. He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace,rise in glory x”
Jon also played drums for the Chemical Brothers:
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