Tony Meehan, the original drummer with The Shadows, has died at the age of 62, from head injuries sustained in a fall at his home. Meehan was a founding member of the group, and was part of their line-up from 1958 until 1961. Shadows guitarist Bruce Welch told BBC news "It is so tragic. Tony was a hugely influential drummer and a very clever arranger. Tony was only 15 when we first played together but he was already a really good drummer. Drummers wanted to be like Tony Meehan as he played in a style that no-one had done before."
Cliff Richard, who last worked with Meehan when he drummed for Richard's Wembley stadium concerts in 1989, said: "There's no doubt that he was a major force in creating The Shadows' distinctive sound. His innovative drumming was the backbone of the band, and his aggressive yet sparse style was similar to Ringo Starr's five years later with The Beatles."
He continued: "Affectionately known as The Baron because of his desire for the very best in all aspects of his life, Tony took his commitment to the band hugely seriously. It seems horrifying that a domestic accident should take his life at such a relatively young age, and my deepest sympathy goes out to his wife and family."
During Meehan's time with Cliff Richard and The Shadows, the group had several number one hits, including 'Living Doll', 'Please Don't Tease', and 'Travellin' Light'. He also appeared in several films, alongside his bandmates in 1961's 'The Young Ones' and also in 'Bongo Express' in 1960 and 'Just For Fun' in 1963. After leaving The Shadows in 1961, Meehan went on to collaborate with bassist Jet Harris, most famously on their number one instrumental 'Diamonds'. He is survived by his wife and seven children.