Heartfelt tributes have poured in for music idol Ray Mayhew,the renowned drummer of the iconic 1980s punk pop group Sigue Sigue Sputnik, following his death on August 28. The sad news was shared by bandmate Martin Degville, who described Mayhew as a "force of light that shone so brightly." No further information regarding the cause of his passing has been released.

Martin Degvilleconveyed his profound sadness in a Facebook tribute, stating, "It is with great sadness that I have been informed today that my best friend and drummer of Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Ray Mayhew, has passed away. May God bless you – you will forever be in my thoughts, and also in the hearts of the fans who love you. You were a force, a light that shone so brightly. Rest in peace, mate. Love you always."

Sigue Sigue Sputnik was founded in 1982 by former Generation X bassist Tony James. The British new wave band gained prominence for its unique blend of electronic and glam influences, crafting a striking image and sound inspired by groups like the New York Dollsand dystopian cult classics such as Blade Runner and Mad Max. Over the years, the band experienced numerous lineup changes, yet Ray Mayhew remained a constant, being the only member to feature throughout every iteration of the group until his departure.

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The band achieved notable success in the music industry, securing three UK top-40 hit singles. Their debut single, "Love Missile F1-11," released in February 1986, climbed to number 3 in the UK Singles Chart and number 2 in South Africa, becoming a significant hit across various European and Asian countries. Their first studio album, "Flaunt It," also reached the top ten in the UK. In 1988, Sigue Sigue Sputnik collaborated with the legendary record-producing and songwriting trioStock Aitken Waterman,known for their hits with artists like Kylie Minogue and Bananarama, on their single "Success."

Mayhew left Sigue Sigue Sputnik in 1989. The group later reunited in the 1990s and went on to have a hit single in Japan. Beyond his work with Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Mayhew continued his musical endeavors, forming his own group called Mayhem Deranged.

Fans of Sigue Sigue Sputnik were deeply affected by the news, flooding Martin Degville's social media post with heartbreaking tributes. One fan fondly recalled being "good friends in the mid 80s" and sharing "a lot of great times hanging out at gigs and the clubs." Another remembered Mayhew as "A very nice person, a genuine person with a good nature." These messages underscored the deep personal connection and respect many held for the late drummer.