Tony \"The Baron\" Meehan, original drummer with legendary pop group The Shadows, has died aged 62. Meehan co-founded the group, famous for backing Sir Cliff Richard and their own instrumental hits such as Apache, from 1958 until 1961. \"It is so tragic. Tony was a hugely influential drummer and a very clever arranger. He had a unique style. Drummers wanted to be like Tony Meehan as he played in a style that no-one had done before. \"Apache\" was such an iconic record. It has been sampled a lot by hip-hop groups.\"
The Shadows backed Sir Cliff Richard on hits like Summer Holiday and Living Doll. Sir Cliff said he was \"shocked\" to hear of Meehan\'s death:
\"Tony was only 15 when we first played together but he was already a really good drummer. 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.\"
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.
Meehan appeared alongside Sir Cliff and his bandmates in the film musical The Young Ones in 1961, as well as the movies Expresso Bongo in 1960 and Just for Fun in 1963.
When Meehan left the Shadows, he joined up with a fellow ex-band member, bassist Jet Harris, for the 1963 number one instrumental Diamonds.
Sir Cliff last worked with Meehan when he drummed for the singer\'s Wembley stadium concerts in 1989.
The Shadows gave their final concert in June 2004.
Tony \"The Baron\" Meehan is survived by his wife and seven children.
