Ranking Roger of the Beat dies at 56

Harry Palmr

Fecks sake!

Roger Charlery, better known as Ranking Roger, the vocalist of the Beat and General Public, has died aged 56.

The Birmingham-born singer died on Tuesday at home surrounded by family, according to a statement on the Beat’s website. It said: “He fought & fought & fought, Roger was a fighter. Sadly Roger past away a few hours ago peacefully at his home surrounded by family.

“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!”

Charlery suffered a stroke last summer and was reportedly diagnosed with two brain tumours and lung cancer in recent months.

The musician and activist Billy Bragg paid tribute to the musician, who played in bands with members of the Specials and Dexys Midnight Runners during his nearly 40-year career.

He said: “Very sorry to hear that Ranking Roger has passed away. Rest easy, Rude Boy.”

The social media account for the reggae group UB40 posted: “R.I.P Ranking Roger, Big Love UB40.”

Despite health challenges, Charlery released an album, Public Confidential, in January and finished a memoir.

Really liked the Beat esp their early material. No better tune to remember him by

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPO2G6m746w

4Ad

Another school boy hero dies.
RIP Rude Boy...

Etc

What a band and what a singer, RIP

Hotblack Desiato

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K6YWX4OL0o

I loved The Beat - still do - they wouldn't have been anything like the same without Roger. Gone far too soon.

bodhrandude

I was so happy when I discovered they were a last minute replacement for Songhoy Blues who got stranded with a number of other groups at a European airport en-route to Body&Soul Festival due to a false bomb hoax. They played a splendid gig and Ranking seemed in great form, I was glad to finally catch them after missing them at the 2013 Electric Picnic. RIP Ranking Roger.

Etc

Love this song.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hrwBbneKg8

Arthur Daley

sugarman wrote: »

Met him a few years ago after their gig in the Workmans, lovely chap. He literally spent the entire night walking around chatting to everyone and getting in pics.

They loved coming over to Ireland. They were here every year. Can't believe we won't see him again now

Hotblack Desiato

Here's Dave Wakeling talking about Roger.

http://englishbeat.net/rip-ranking-roger-dave-wakeling-speaks-with-richard-blade/