How old was Cream drummer Ginger Baker, what was his cause of death and what were the bands best-known songs?

By Deputy Chief EditorOctober 7, 2019

195 2 minutes read

Ginger Baker had been battling health issues in the final years of his life (Picture: Getty Images)

Legendary Cream drummer Ginger Baker has passed away following reports last week that he was in hospital.

The sad news was confirmed this morning on his Twitter page, saying: We are very sad to say that Ginger has passed away peacefully in hospital this morning.

Thank you to everyone for your kind words over the past few weeks, they added.

Ginger originally found fame alongside Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce in the 60s band, who are considered one of the most influential acts of all time – while he was regarded as rocks first superstar drummer.

How old was Cream drummer Ginger Baker?

Ginger – real name Peter Edward Baker – was 80 years old at the time of his death.

He was born on 19 August 1939 in Lewisham, South London.

What was Ginger Bakers cause of death?

An image of the band Cream in 1967 — Cream released four albums during their time together (Picture: WireImage)

Although the exact cause of his death was not given Ginger had been suffering health issues for several years.

He revealed in 2013 that years of heavy smoking had left him with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

He was also suffering from chronic back pain from degenerative arthritis.

The musician underwent open-heart surgery in 2016, writing on his blog: Just seen doctor…bit shock…no more gigs for this old drummer…everything is off…of all things I never thought it would be my heart.

News that he was in hospital in a critical condition came last week with his family saying in a statement: The Baker family are sad to announce that Ginger is critically ill in hospital.

Please keep him in your prayers tonight.

What were Creams best-known songs?

Cream were formed in London in 1966, and during their time together released four albums – Fresh Cream, Disraeli Gears, Wheels Of Fire and Goodbye, which was their only number one album.

Their best-known singles include 1966s I Feel Free, which reached number 11 in the charts, and Strange Brew, which peaked at number 17 in 1967 – while their other chart hits included White Room, Sunshine Of Your Love and Badge.

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However the band only remained together for three years due to Gingers volatile relationship with bandmate Jack Bruce – with the drummer once even said to have threatened his fellow band member with a knife.

There had always been problems with Ginger and myself, Jack previously told Forbes. Were kind of like brothers, when its nice its great, but then sometimes it can go really wrong.

Ginger went on to form Blind Faith which also featured singer Steve Winwood, and also fronted the band Ginger Bakers Air Force.