Iconic drummer Ginger Baker is critically ill and hospitalized according to a statement shared via his Facebook. The statement reads, “Announcement. Ginger is critically ill in hospital. Please keep him in your prayers. Thank you everyone.”
Born Peter Edward “Ginger” Baker on August 19th, 1939, the now 80-year-old began playing the drums at age 15 and went on to co-found Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted band Cream alongside Eric Clapton and Jack Bruce. Formed in 1966, Cream achieved global success with songs including “Sunshine of Your Love”, “White Room”, “Crossroads”, but had a short-lived career through 1968.
In 1969, Baker co-founded Blind Faith with Clapton, Ric Grech, and Steve Winwood and their time as a band lasted only through a single tour and self-titled album. Ginger went on to form a rock fusion out, Ginger Baker’s Air Force, before deciding to set up a recording studio in Nigeria and dig deep into the history and roots of African music. Baker has collaborated with countless musicians throughout his five decade musical career.
In 2016, Baker announced he had been diagnosed with serious heart issues, underwent open heart surgery, and subsequently retired from touring.
I’m with you my love, the light’s shining through on you…