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.”
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% more watchable. And just a brilliant bloke who left you feeling better about life every time you ran into him. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/ljPIbD8D0J
— Simon Price﮷ (@simon_price01) September 12, 2024
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
Robin Guy "Bobbinz". Gone, but what an impression he made. Condolences to his loved ones. It was such a privilege to have known him and to have had him in the band.❤️ pic.twitter.com/xIHL72sLko
— Julianne Regan (@msjulianneregan) September 12, 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.
A tremendously talented drummer, super showman and such a lovely bloke. Bang hard and shine bright fella 💫 RIP Robin Guy #fuckcancer pic.twitter.com/XCylw7o5Mo
— Sian Parry 🏴 (@Sian_Parry) September 12, 2024
Very sad to hear that the wonderful Robin Guy has passed away. I met Robin a number of times during his brief stint with Tigertailz. One of the nicest blokes you'd care to meet, and an infinitely talented musician. An incredible force behind that kit. RIP.https://t.co/ziTebDuHxL
— Jarrad (@guitarsandvinyl) September 12, 2024
Such sad news to hear of Robin Guy's passing, drummer from Sham 69. Photo was taken 5 years ago. He was a top notch person, so lovely to meet. He will be missed so much.#RIPRobinGuy #Sham69 pic.twitter.com/ekOoa9KaFq
— 𝔇𝔬𝔲𝔟𝔩𝔢 𝔇𝔲𝔱𝔠𝔥 𝔇𝔦𝔞𝔫𝔢 ☣ (@Brassylassy) September 12, 2024
Very sad to hear about the death of Robin Guy @RobinGuy he was a mate and a big character https://t.co/1OAHYlFRt7
— Matt MS 💙 (@MattMarchSmith) September 12, 2024
Rest In Peace, Robin Guy. What a great drummer!https://t.co/a0kSYko8Nd
— Veglam (@Veglam) September 12, 2024
Sad news today. Cracking fella and one hell of a drummer.
— Andii Vamp (@Andii_John) September 12, 2024
RIP Robin Guy, a truly amazing drummer. pic.twitter.com/0GmC8Pg8cC
— David "Bruise 93" Mallett (@wolverinebruise) September 12, 2024
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.”
English (US) · 