How did Drummie Zeb die? Cause of Death Explained

Angus Gaye, more popularly known as “Drummie Zeb,” passed away recently. He was 62 years old. His fellow bandmates announced the sad news of his death via Facebook this Friday. Read on to know how did Drummie Zeb die and what was the cause of his death.

Drummie Zeb was the lead vocalist and drummer of the UK reggae band “Aswad.” It was the first British reggae band to be signed by an International label. Drummie Zeb’s bandmates confirmed the news while stating that he has “left a huge void.”


How did Drummie Zeb die?


Aswad lead vocalist, drummer, and musician Drummie Zeb, real name Angus Gaye, died recently. His Aswad bandmates announced the heartbreaking news of his death in an emotional post on Facebook on Friday, September 2, 2022.

“It is with the deepest regret and profound loss that we have to announce the passing of our brother Angus ‘Drummie’ Gaye,” the post states.

“Drummie was the lead vocalist for the iconic band Aswad and is much loved and respected by both family, friends, and peers alike,” it adds.

The post concluded with: “Drummie has left us to join our ancestors and leaves a huge void both personally and professionally.”

The exact day and date of Drummie Zeb’s death are unknown at the time of writing. The specific manner of his demise is also unknown.


Drummie Zeb dead: What was the cause of his death?


The Facebook post announcing Drummie Zeb’s death didn’t reveal the exact cause of his death. Netizens are speculating that he may have been suffering from an unannounced illness or may have suffered a heart attack.

However, nothing is confirmed at the moment. More information surrounding his death will be available later.

“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,” Aswad members wrote in the post.


Who was Angus “Drummie Zeb” Gaye?


Angus Gaye was born on September 24, 1959, in London to Grenadian parents. He attended the Holland Park School. The English musician became known as “Drummie Zeb” after forming a reggae band with Brinsley Forde and Tony Robinson.

Their band named “Aswad” became the first British reggae band to be signed to an international label when Island Records signed them in 1970. The deal helped the band rise to fame as they release over 15 albums in two decades.

Drummie Zeb was the lead singer and drummer of the group. Apart from that, he also worked as a record producer with Ruth Joy, Vanessa Mae, Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson, and Ace of Base.

Aswad’s biggest hits include Don’t Turn Around (1988), Shine and Give a Little Love (1994), and a rendition of Share a Dream which they performed with Sir Cliff Richard at Wembley Stadium, London, in 1989.

Aswad also contributed to the Free Nelson Mandela campaign with their chart hit Set Them Free. “Aswad are still very relevant in the 21st century as can be seen by the many festivals they appear on both in the UK and around the world,” said their management Spaine Music.

In 1996, the band underwent a lineup change which left Drummie and Tony as a duo. They toured with The Wailers in the late 1990s. Their last album City Lock was released in 2009.

Drummie Zeb was also drafted as a replacement drummer for The Wailers. He toured with Kenny Chesney after meeting him while recording a collab.

Drummie Zeb was a father to six children and one grandchild.


Tributes for Drummie Zeb flooding social media platforms

Fans have been paying tributes to Drummie Zeb on social media platforms. His industry mates have also joined them to mourn the loss of the talented English musician.

The former UB40 frontman Ali Campbell wrote: “Very sad to hear the passing of Aswad’s Drummie Zeb. We’ve lost another UK Reggae pioneer. Deepest condolences go out to all of the Aswad family.”

Vocalist Matt Hoy also paid respect, tweeting: “RIP Drummie.. Very sad news!! #Aswad’, while Robin Campbell added: ‘RIP DRUMMIE ZEB”

Our deepest condolences go out to Angus’ family, friends, and loved ones. May God let the departed soul rest in peace.

3 thoughts on “How did Drummie Zeb die? Cause of Death Explained”

  1. Drummie Zeb was one of the best reggae vocalists ever…right up there with Bob, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaac, Freddie MacGregor and David Hines. No mistaking his sweet vocals. For the longest, I’ve been wishing and hoping for an as wad reunion in tour but I guess that’s not going to happen now at least not with drummizeb. Rest in Zion.

  2. Rest in Love Drummie Zeb so Heartbreaking hearing of your passing. Forever remember you, forever remember your sweet voice. Condolences to his Family. xx

  3. Rest in eternal peace with all the great reggae artist that av gone too soon bring tears to my eyes condolences to the family

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