Tributes paid after Rachel Stamp and Sham 69 drummer Robin Guy dies: “A tremendously talented drummer and a lovely bloke”

13 September, 2024

Robin Guy of Sham 69 performs at the O2 Forum Kentish Town on December 16, 2016

Tributes have been paid following the death of drummer Robin Guy.

Guy was most widely recognised for his work with the cult band Rachel Stamp, as well as his time in Sham 69. He also famously stepped in for performances with Faith No More, Violent New Breed and Ragdolls throughout his career, as well as taking part in many drum masterclasses and teaching at Brighton Institute of Modern Music.

News of his death was announced earlier today (September 13) by music journalist and member of punk legends Goldblade and The Membranes, John Robb.

Writing on Louder Than War, he shared: We are sorry to hear of the passing of Robin Guy. Robin was an extraordinary drummer whose power and finesse made him one of the most in demand players on the scene. He first came into our view playing for underrated but influential band Rachel Stamp adding his unique power and dynamics to their enthralling glam punk indie sleaze.”

The post continued, recalling his work with All About Eve, as well as the “the respect he was held in on the scene.”

“More important than any of this was that he was a wonderful human being and always a pleasure to bump into at festivals where his whirlwind energy and upbeat demeanour was the same on and off stage,” Robb continued. “He fought his cancer with this same attitude and continued to play as much as he could and defiance and openness about his condition was inspirational. Godspeed brother.”

Following the news of his passing, many others have taken to social media to pay their respects to the drummer and share sympathy for his family and friends.

“Awful news that Robin Guy of Rachel Stamp (and Sham ’69 and countless others) has died. One of those super-energetic, all-action drummers who makes every gig 20 per cent more watchable,” wrote music critic Simon Price. “Just a brilliant bloke who left you feeling better about life every time you ran into him. R.I.P.”

Similarly, journalist Ian Winwood recalled the “memorable” day he spent with the musician over two decades ago, while musician Julianne Regan reflected on the “impression he made” on the music scene. “Condolences to his loved ones. It was such a privilege to have known him and to have had him in the band,” she wrote.

Terrible news about Robin Guy. After a cushy five day assignment in Los Angeles, for my second ever commission from…

Posted by Ian Winwood on Friday, September 13, 2024

Elsewhere, one fan described Guy as “a tremendously talented drummer, super showman and such a lovely bloke”, while someone else hailed him as “One of the nicest blokes you’d care to meet, an infinitely talented musician [and an incredible force behind that kit.”

Find more tributes below.

In a past interview with Pearl Drums, the musician opened up about the players that inspired him throughout the years, naming Iron Maiden, The Police, and Adam & The Ants as capturing some “seriously original stuff”. He also shared praise for Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith, Pantera‘s Vinnie Paul, Ronald Bruner Jr. and others.

When asked what advice he wanted to impart to new musicians looking to make it in the industry, he said: “NEVER. EVER. GIVE. UP. EVER.”

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