Aswad singer Drummie Zeb has died.

The reggae band’s frontman passed away aged 62 and the group announced the news in a statement which was released today (September 2) paying tribute to the musician and confirming more details will be released at a later time.

The statement read: “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.

“More information will be given at a later time but on behalf of his family and Aswad – we ask that their privacy is respected at this heart-breaking time.

“Drummie has left us to join our ancestors and leaves a huge void both personally and professionally.”

Tributes have since poured in with a heartfelt message from UB40 star Ali Campbell who mourned the loss of the “reggae pioneer”.

Ali tweeted: “Very sad to hear the passing of Aswads Drummie Zeb. We’ve lost another UK Reggae pioneer. Deepest condolences go out to all of the Aswad family @TheRealAswad. Big Love”.

Drummie was brought up in London and rose to fame with Aswad in the 1970s with the group releasing 21 albums over the years and landing three Grammy Award nominations.

ALSO WORKED AS A RECORD PRODUCER

As well as being a singer and talented drummer, Drummie also worked as a record producer.

Aswad’s hits included 1988’s Don’t Turn Around , 1994 chart classic Shine and Give a Little Love and they famously performed with Sir Cliff Richard in 1989 putting on a rendition of Share a Dream at Wembley Stadium in London.

The group underwent a line-up shift in 1996 which left Drummie and Tony ‘Gad’ Robinson to continue Aswad as a duo.

In the late 1990s, Aswad toured with The Wailers and Drummie was later drafted in a replacement drummer for the group. He went on to tour with singer Kenny Chesney after meeting him while recording a collaboration with The Wailers.

Aswad released their last album – City Lock – in 2009.

Drummie was a dad to six children and one grandchild.