Arthur 'Gaps' Henderson, frontman and vocalist of two-tone band The Selecter, has died at age 73 after a short illness, the band confirmed on Instagram.

"We are devastated to confirm that Selecter frontman Arthur' Gaps' Hendrickson has died after a short illness. The world has lost a 2-Tone original, a talented musician and an absolute gentleman. We have lost our beloved friend and bandmate. RIP Gaps", they wrote.

The Selector was known for its diverse lineup in terms of gender and race, which featured Henderson and Pauline Black as lead vocalists, as well as drummer Charley "Aitch" Bembridge.

The band formed in 1979, debuting with their first album, Too Much Pressure. The following year, the ska rock outfit delivered five top 40 singles in the UK.

Henderson had performed with the Coventry band on and off over the past 40 years. They released their latest album, Human Algebra, last year.

Black said on her Facebook page that she was "too devastated to say anything coherent at the moment" but shared a message from Hendrickson's family:

"The family of Arthur 'Gaps' Hendrickson are saddened to announce the passing of our dearly beloved "Gappa". He passed away in the early hours of Tuesday 11th June 2024 in Coventry."

"Gaps was known the world over for singing the title track on The Selecter's debut album 'Too Much Pressure', he brought a captivating angst and frustration to the track as he described the trials and tribulations of daily life for the working man. He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him."

Acclaimed musician and presenter Jools Holland expressed his condolences, writing, "Sending all love and condolences. Truly dear man," under the band's Instagram post.

 

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