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

In a poignant Facebook tribute, Martin Degville expressed his profound sadness, 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 formed in 1982 by former Generation X bassist Tony James. The band quickly garnered attention for their distinctive music and striking image, which drew inspiration from electronic and glam bands like the New York Dolls, as well as dystopian cult classic movies such as Blade Runner and Mad Max. Throughout their history, the band experienced various lineup changes, but Ray Mayhew was notably the only member who featured in every iteration of the group until his departure in 1989.

The band achieved significant success with their debut single, "Love Missile F1-11," released in February 1986. This track soared to number 3 in the UK Singles Chart, reached number 2 in South Africa, and became a major hit across several countries in Europe and Asia. Their debut studio album, "Flaunt It," also made it into the top ten in the UK, solidifying the band's burgeoning popularity. Sigue Sigue Sputnik went on to secure three UK top-40 hit singles, including "21st Century Boy." In 1988, they collaborated with the renowned record producing and songwriting trio Stock Aitken Waterman on their single "Success." Stock Aitken Waterman were celebrated for their Midas touch in the 1980s, producing hit singles for artists like Kylie Minogue, Bananarama, and Dead or Alive.

After Mayhew left the band in 1989, Sigue Sigue Sputnik later reunited in the 1990s and even achieved a hit single in Japan. Outside of his work with Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Ray Mayhew also led his own group called Mayhem Deranged. Fans of Sigue Sigue Sputnik were devastated by the news of his passing, flooding Martin Degville's social media post with heartbreaking tributes. Many shared personal anecdotes, remembering Mayhew as a kind, genuine person and a good friend, highlighting the impact he had on their lives during an exciting era of London pop culture.