Ginger Baker, one of the most brilliant, versatile and turbulent drummers in the history of British music, has died aged 80. The news was reported on Sunday (October 6).

His family had previously made it public that he was critically ill and asked fans to keep him in their prayers. His Facebook page said he “passed away peacefully” on Sunday morning.

Among those paying tribute were two Beatles. Fellow drummer Ringo Starr said: “God bless Ginger Baker, incredible musician, wild and inventive drummer.” Paul McCartney wrote: “Great drummer, wild and lovely guy. Sad to hear that he died but the memories never will.”

Baker was best known as the drummer of Cream and for a career that straddled jazz, blues and rock.