The Beat star Ranking Roger has died aged 56 following his battle with cancer, it has been confirmed.
A statement was released on The Beat’s Facebook page confirming Roger – real name Roger Charlery – died at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday (26 March).
Sharing a black and white photo of the star, the statement read: ‘He fought & fought & fought, Roger was a fighter. Sadly Roger past away a few hours ago peacefully at his home surrounded by family. [sic]
‘Roger’s family would like to thank everyone for their constant support during this tough time. More to follow in the coming days. RIP ROGER!’
Roger’s battle with his health had been documented over the last year, with the singer suffering a stroke last summer and being diagnosed with two brain tumours and lung cancer in January.
He was best known for co-founding The Beat back in Birmingham, where he was from, in the late 70s.
They released three studio albums in the 1980s and were known for fusing together a number of different music genres from latin music, to ska, soul, reggae and pop in their songs, including the likes of well-known hits Stand Down Margaret, Mirror in the Bathroom and Tears of a Clown.
The Beat made it big over in the US and Canada, under the name of The English Beat, and Roger was also known for being in band General Public with his The Beat bandmate Dave Wakeling.
He had been busy working on music in the months up to his death, with Roger actually releasing album, Public Confidential, back in January.
Roger also had a biography in the works about his life in the music industry, which he co-wrote, that is set to be released later this year.
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