Jon Brookes Dead: The Charlatans Drummer Dies Aged 44

90s Indie Rocker Dies Aged 44

The Charlatans drummer Jon Brookes has died aged 44, three years after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

The band's frontman Tim Burgess announced Jon's passing on Twitter, paying tribute to his friend.

Jon Brookes has died aged 44

"Jon Brookes, my friend, our drummer and inspiration to so many, passed away this morning. We are torn apart. Love & thoughts to Jon's family," he wrote.

A statement on the band's website said he died this morning.

"Jon had been receiving treatment for a brain tumour and had undergone several operations, although he had been working on new material with the band over the summer. He passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning with his family at his bedside," it read.

Jon with his Charlatans bandmates

A further statement from the band said: "Jon was a brilliant drummer, an inspiration, a founding member of The Charlatans, part of our family and a friend to everyone in and around the band. Losing someone who was always so full of life is a tragedy that will be shared by so many. Our thoughts are with Debbie and all of Jon's family."

Jon was diagnosed with the tumour in 2010 after he collapsed on stage during a gig in Philadelphia.

He is survived by his wife and three daughters.

Together with the Charlatans, he had more than 20 top 40 hits, after released their debut single, 'Indian Rope', in 1990.

Founder member and keyboard player Rob Collins died in a road accident in 1996.

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