808 State bass guitarist and keyboard player Andrew Barker has passed away at the age of 53.
The sad news of the Manchester musician’s death was announced on the electronic band’s official Twitter page on Sunday (November 7).
The group released a statement which read: “It’s with a heavy heart to inform you of the passing of Andrew Barker.
“His family and friends asks that people respect their privacy at this time but remember him for the joy he brought through his personality and music. You’ll be sadly missed.”
Alongside the post was a black and white photo of Andrew smiling.
(Image: Redferns)
The cause of Andrew’s death has not yet been shared.
Fans of Andrew sent in a flood of tributes to the star on Twitter, as well as big names in the music industry.
Happy Mondays star Rowetta said: “Absolutely heartbreaking news. Love you & will miss you Andy Barker”
One fan wrote: “So sad to hear this, another unsung Manchester music man, and superb DJ..”
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
A second commented: “So sad to hear this news about Andy. You were a true electronic music pioneer. Big love to all his family and friends. RIP Andy #808stateforever”
A third said: “Oh my goodness. This is just awful news. I had the pleasure of knowing Andy for many years, and we got into a number of scraped whilst laughing all the way. My love and thoughts to all his family and friends. #rip”
A fourth penned: “Oh man, what a great lad, a true working class hero. Love to family and friends”
(Image: Getty Images)
A fifth added: “Heartbreaking news, My heart goes out to Andys family and friends. Had the pleasure of watching 808 state numerous times,”[sic]
Andy’s band 808 State formed in 1987 in Manchester, taking their name from a drum machine called the Roland TR-808.
Andrew joined the band in 1989 alongside his music pal Darren Partingdon, and the duo were known as the Spinmasters.
The band had been originally formed by Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson, and they found commercial success when their track Pacific State was discovered by BBC Radio 1 DJ Gary Davies.
For more of the latest showbiz news from the Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
