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808 State bassist and keyboardist Andrew Barker dies aged 53 as electronic band honors him
- News of the musician’s death was shared on the group’s Twitter page on Sunday.
- The message read: “It is with a heavy heart to inform you of the death of Andrew Barker
- “His family and friends ask people to respect their privacy at this time, but remember him for the joy he has brought through his personality and his music. We will miss you very much ‘
- Andrew’s cause of death was not known at time of writing
- 808 State formed in Manchester in 1987, takes its name from the Roland TR-808 drum machine
- Original members Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson released their debut album Newbuild in September 1988
- They achieved commercial success in 1989 when their song Pacific State was covered by BBC Radio One
- Gerald left 808 State in 1989 to work on his own solo project, and the remaining members brought in DJs Andrew and Darren Partington, known as Spinmasters.
808 State bassist and keyboardist Andrew Barker has died at the age of 53.
News of the musician’s death was shared on the group’s Twitter page on Sunday.
The message read: “It is with a heavy heart to inform you of the passing of Andrew Barker.
Sad news: 808 State bassist and keyboardist Andrew Barker has died aged 53, with news released on Sunday (pictured 2018)
Electronic music legend: News of the musician’s death was shared on the group’s Twitter page, with the group sharing a few heartfelt words” class=”blkBorder img-share” style=”max-width:100%” />
Electronic music legend: News of the musician’s death was shared on the group’s Twitter page, with the group sharing a few heartfelt words
“His family and friends ask people to respect their privacy at this time, but remember him for the joy he has brought through his personality and his music. We will miss you dearly. ‘
A black and white image of Andrew smiling has been released along with the statement.
Andrew’s cause of death was not known at the time of writing.
Music makers: Andrew (center) was a part of 808 State with Graham Massey (left) and Darren Partington (right) (pictured 2018)” class=”blkBorder img-share” style=”max-width:100%” />
Music makers: Andrew (center) was a part of 808 State with Graham Massey (left) and Darren Partington (right) (pictured 2018)
Fans of the band were quick to pay homage to him, one person tweeted, “Drawn at 808 State since I found one of your tapes in my indie-goth big sister’s collection.
“It always seemed strange, sitting among JAMC, Sisters of Mercy, etc. RIP Andrew Barker. The rhythm continues.
Another wrote: ‘So sad to hear this, another unsung musician from Manchester and a great DJ. will never die RIP Mister xxx. ‘
“So sad to hear this news about Andy. You were a true pioneer of electronic music. The great love to all is family and friends. RIP Andy # 808stateforever, â€another fan wrote.
Paying tribute: Fans of the band were quick to pay their respects, one person tweeted: “So sad to hear this, another unsung musician from Manchester and a great DJ”
Another devotee posted: “Heartbreaking news, my heart goes out to Andys family and friends.
“I have had the pleasure of watching 808 state on several occasions, as well as fond memories of watching Thunderdome spinmasters among other clubs.
“Andy’s music, knowledge and humor will never be forgotten. TEAR.’
Another fan shared: “Terrible news. I am deeply saddened. Andrew was a true pioneer of the UK scene and his work has had a global impact which is rightly indelible.
“On a personal note, it was his early work with 808 State and the Quadrastate album introduced me to dance and eventually DJ RIP Andrew.”
808 State was formed in Manchester in 1987, taking its name from the Roland TR-808 drum machine.
Original members Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson released their debut album Newbuild in September 1988 and they achieved commercial success in 1989 when their song Pacific State was covered by BBC Radio One.
Gerald left 808 State in 1989 to work on his own solo project, and the remaining members brought in DJs Andrew and Darren Partington, known as Spinmasters.
Hitmaker: 808 State formed in Manchester in 1987, takes its name from the Roland TR-808 drum machine
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