The family of Specials drummer John (Brad) Bradbury has announced his death at the age of 62.
In a statement released on Tuesday that was also posted on the British band's website, the family said he had died on Monday.
"Brad's drumming was the powerhouse behind The Specials and it was seen as a key part to the Two Tone sound," the statement said.
"He was much respected in the world of drumming and his style of reggae and ska was seen as genuinely ground breaking when The Specials first hit the charts."
The family did not release details about the cause of death and asked for privacy. The band's representatives said Bradbury died in England.
He joined The Specials in 1979 and played with the band when it reformed in 2008.
They had hits with songs such as Free Nelson Mandela, Ghost Town and Too Much Too Young.
"It is with deep regret that we say goodbye to our great friend, the world's greatest drummer, our beloved Brad. RIP," The Specials said in a statement posted on Twitter.
Bradbury was born in Coventry, The Specials' home town, and joined after original drummer Silverton Hutchinson left the band in 1979.
As songwriter Jerry Dammers's house mate, he filled in for Hutchinson at the recording session for the single Gangsters and was quickly made a permanent member.
