British musician
Ranking Roger, has died at the age of 56.
Roger – real name Roger Charlery – was best known as the frontman of the bands
The Beat (known internationally as The English Beat) and General Public.
A statement posted on The Beat’s Facebook page confirmed that Roger had died at his home on Tuesday night, with his family at his side.
The post read: “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.”
Until recently, Roger had still been touring as a member of The Beat, but was forced to cancel a string of dates in the latter half of last year, when he suffered a stroke.
While being in treated in hospital, doctors also diagnosed Roger with two brain tumours, and lung cancer, but had insisted earlier this year that he was still keen to return to the stage, after taking a six-month absence.
As a member of The Beat, Roger had a number of top 5 hits on the UK singles chart, including Mirror In The Bathroom and a cover of Can’t Get Used To Losing You.
Meanwhile, General Public were known for songs like Tenderness and Take The Day Off, which were featured in the films Sixteen Candles and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, respectively.
He also collaborated with artists like The Clash, Sting and Smash Mouth.
Shortly before taking ill last year, Roger had completed writing his autobiography I Just Can’t Stop It, which had been expected to be released later in 2019.