Sigue Sigue Sputnik star Ray Mayhew has died at the age of 80.

The 1980s music idol was a drummer for the new wave band formed in 1982 by former Generation X bassist Tony James. 

The sad news of his death was shared by bandmate Martin Degville in a Facebook tribute.

He died on August 28, but no further information or cause of death was given.

Martin’s tribute read: ‘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.

Sigue Sigue Sputnik star Ray Mayhew has died at the age of 80

The 1980s music idol was a drummer for the new wave band formed in 1982 by former Generation X bassist Tony James

‘You were a force, a light that shone so brightly. Rest in peace, mate. Love you always.’ 

The band had three UK top-40 hit singles, including Love Missile F1-11 and 21st Century Boy.

The band’s music, image and inspiration drew from a range of electronic and glam bands such as Suicide and the New York Dolls. 

Moving on from the 80s, the band went on to work with famous producers like Stock Aitken Waterman on their single Success in 1988.

Outside of the band Mayhew had his own group called Mayhem Deranged.

Fans were shocked to hear the sad news of his death and posted tributes online.

They penned on X: ‘Sad to hear that Ray Mayhew, the drummer with Sigue Sigue Sputnik has died. For a brief shining moment in 1986, this band were everything.’,

‘Very sad news, I saw them Lots back in the day.’,

The sad news of his death was shared by bandmate Martin Degville in a Facebook tribute ( he is pictured left with bandmate Chris Kavanagh)

He died on August 28 but no further information or cause of death was given

‘Ray Mayhew from #SigueSigueSputnik goes to the great gig in the sky. Forever part of the 80s soundtrack.’,

‘I’ve just heard the sad news that former Sigue Sigue Sputnik drummer Ray Mayhew passed away on the 28th August.’

‘RAY MAYHEW OF SIGUE SIGUE SPUTNIK RIP.’,

‘We have heard, sadly, Ray Mayhew, drummer of Sigue Sigue Sputnik passed away 28th August 2025 – we had to question, was that true and we sure didn’t want to believe it. We had always hoped for his wellbeing and even SSS to reunite, against the odds. Thoughts to remaining members.’