JET BLACK, drummer and co-founder of new-post-punk-wave
heroes THE STRANGLERS has passed away, aged 84.

Press statement: “Jet Black, born Brian John Duffy, passed away peacefully
at home on Tue 6th Dec. A founding member of iconic British new-wave rock band
The Stranglers, Jet helped the band achieve a prolific 23 top 40 singles and 19 top 40 albums in the official UK charts.

As the ‘elder statesmen’ of the group, Jet was already a successful businessman in the Guildford area when The Stranglers formed in 1974. Jet owned a fleet of ice cream vans,
one of which, as many fans will fondly remember, was used to tour the UK in the early years. Jet also owned an off license, the upstairs apartment of which doubled as
‘Stranglers HQ’ in the early days.

Jet retired from performing live with The Stranglers in 2015 having suffered with respiratory health issues since childhood. Despite difficulties in performing towards the end of his career, Jet’s charismatic charm resonated with fans who would endlessly chant his name as he took his place at the drums.

As a drummer in jazz bands during the 60s, Jet’s playing style
helped shape The Stranglers’ unique sound.

On reaction to the news, bassist and co-frontman JJ Burnel said “The welcoming committee has doubled. After years of ill health Jet has finally been released. He was a force of nature. An inspiration. The Stranglers would not have been if it wasn’t for him. The most erudite of men. A rebel with many causes. Say hi to Dave for me.”

A wonderful tribute (Thanks to Bang Showbiz).

THE STRANGLERS: Website – Bio – Discography