UB40 founding member Astro has died.
The musician - real name Terence Wilson - passed away at the age of 64 after a short illness, according to a statement on the Ali Campbell and Astro Twitter page.
“We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken to have to tell you that our beloved Astro has today passed away after a very short illness, the post reads.
“The world will never be the same without him.
“We ask you to please respect his family’s privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”
Astro's cause of death has not been shared.
In 2013, reggae star Astro, a vocalist and trumpet player, quit UB40 after more than 30 years, saying that it was making him “miserable”.
The band responded to his departure by saying he had let down fans by walking out on his touring commitments.
Birmingham native Astro said the group had been “like a rudderless ship” and he said his heart was not in their most recent album Getting Over The Storm, complaining his contribution had been as a backing vocalist.
He said: “I cannot bear to see what we are offering to our loyal fans who have stood by us through thick and thin.
"I think it’s clear that I’ve had enough of being depressed, as I’m sure other members are, but the difference is I’m not prepared to continue to be miserable at home and work.”
In a statement, released at the time, the group said: “UB40 are shocked and saddened by not only Astro’s decision to quit the band, but also his refusal to honour his touring commitments.
"We have several tours booked in the coming months, including our biggest UK tour for three years, and he has not only let us down but also our fans.
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"While we are naturally disappointed that Astro will not be with us at these shows, UB40 will continue and are looking forward to a positive 2014.”
After Astro departed the group he team up with Campbell and Virtue in a new version of UB40.
