Ginger Baker, the legendary drummer known for forming the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted ‘60s supergroup Cream with Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce, died today at age 80 after being hospitalized for an undisclosed “critical” illness. His death was confirmed on his social media accounts.

Cream reunited for a series of concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and Madison Square Garden in 2005. Baker published his autobiography Hellraiser in 2009 and was the subject of the documentary Beware of Mr. Baker in 2012. He additionally released 18 solo albums throughout his life, the most recent being Why in 2014. He retired from touring due to his health problems in 2016.

Ginger Baker, great drummer, wild and lovely guy. We worked together on the ‘Band on the Run’ album in his ARC Studio, Lagos, Nigeria. Sad to hear that he died but the memories never will. X Paul