Mick Tucker

Michael Thomas "Mick" Tucker (17 July 1947, Harlesden, North West London – 14 February 2002) was the drummer and backing vocalist of the English rockband, The Sweet.

Bands

In 1965, Mick joined "Wainwright's Gentlemen" and was later joined by vocalist Brian Connolly playing a mixture of R&B, Motown, and early psychedelic sounds. The band split in 1968. There are a number of recordings in existence including a cover of The Coasters/The Hollies hit "Ain't That Just Like Me" which was officially released in February 2011 on a compilation CD "Rare Mod, Volume 3" on the Acid Jazz label (AJXCD 238). The track features Tucker on drums and, according to band bassist Jan Frewer, is thought to have been recorded in 1965.

He was a founding member of the band "Sweetshop" in January 1968 along with Steve Priest, Brian Connolly, and Frank Torpey (b. 30 April 1947, Kilburn, North West London), who was later replaced by Mick Stewart who was himself succeeded by Andy Scott. "Sweetshop" was shortened to "The Sweet" in 1968.

Drumming style

From 1973 Tucker used a large Ludwig drum kit, comprising two bass drums, three mounted tom-toms and two floor toms, complimented by Paiste cymbals. On an objective view he was a very talented drummer with a range of complex rhythms who could have helped any band considerably. The glam rock image of Sweet sometimes eclipsed this.

Personal life

On 16 August 1973 Mick married his first wife, Pauline, at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Ruislip, Middlesex. They then moved into a house in Beverley Road, Ruislip.

In the basement Mick installed a sound studio. He also had a music room with silver and gold albums awarded from all over the world on the walls.

Mick enjoyed playing tennis, collecting glass figurines, cooking, and playing with his German Shepherd dog, Zeus. He loved expensive cars, furs, watches and jewellery. He also had countless pairs of shoes. He wore a chain with a quarter-moon and a star around his neck. It was his good luck charm.

Death

Mick died 14 February 2002 in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire from leukemia, aged 54. His funeral took place 25 February 2002. He is buried in an unmarked grave in Chorleywood House cemetery.

A wooden bench with a brass plaque funded by fans as a dedication to Tucker is also positioned in the grave's vicinity.

He left behind a widow, Janet and a daughter Ayston from his first marriage to Pauline, who died in 1979.

Sweet bass player Steve Priest said about Tucker: "He was the most underrated drummer that ever came out of England. He was the powerhouse of the band. He was technically marvellous. His timing was impeccable but he had a lot of soul as well and he really felt what he was playing."

Guitarist Andy Scott said, "Mick Tucker was the best drummer around in the Seventies. I played in the same band as him and was proud to do so. I feel extreme sadness therefore that he has now left us and my heart goes out to Janet and Ayston with their sad loss. Miss you Mick."