Gilson Lavis, the classic drummer for Squeeze and later a member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, has died at the age of 74.

Lavis’ passing was reported on Thursday by Holland, who wrote on Facebook, “I’m very sad to report that Gilson Lavis my dear friend and long-standing drummer passed away at his home in Lincolnshire last night. On behalf of my Orchestra, Squeeze, the many musicians who have worked with and befriended Gilson over the years and all the people he has supported through the AA fellowship, I send our love and sympathy to Nikki and Gilson, his dear wife and son.”

Born David Leslie Gilson Lavis on June 27th, 1951, in Bedfordshire, England, the drummer got his start touring with legendary musicians Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Dolly Parton.

He joined Squ

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