Sad news to report as The Pogues drummer Andrew "The Clobberer" Rankin died Tuesday, February 10th at 72, the band announced on social media.

Nicknamed "The Clobberer," Ranken played drums, percussion, harmonica and provided vocals for the Celtic punkers on every studio album, including 1985's Rum Sodomy & the Lash, which he named after a Winston Churchill quote because, he said, "it seemed to sum up life in our band."

A cause of death is yet to be released, but Rolling Stone UK reports Rankin suffered from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and dealt with ill health. He released a song in 2023, raising money for charity in support of a hospice center.

In a statement, Rankin's bandmates called him the "heartbeat of The Pogues," continuing:

"Andrew, thank you for everything, for your friendship, your wit and generosity of spirit, and of course for the music, forever a true friend and brother. Our thoughts and love are with his family at this difficult time."

Born in 1953, Rankin joined the Pogues in 1983 when they were still known as Pogue Mahone and performed with the band until their breakup in 1996. He rejoined in 2001 until the band called it quits for a second time in 2014.

Rankin performed on some of the Pogues' most well-known albums, including Red Roses for Me (1984), Rum Sodomy and the Lash (1985) and If I Should Fall From Grace With God (1988).

He was preceded in death by fellow members Shane MacGowan (2023), Darryl Hunt (2022) and Philip Chevron (2013).

Andrew ‘The Clobberer’ Ranken.

13 November 1953 - 10 February 2026 pic.twitter.com/kgzaVnNDHg

— The Pogues (@poguesofficial) February 11, 2026