Andy Barker, a member of the pioneering electronic group 808 State since 1989, has died. He was 53. Barker’s passing came on Saturday “after a short period of illness,” the band wrote in an Instagram post from their official account. See the statement below: Barker began making music at age 14. Initially inspired by hip-hop, his interest shifted towards house music two years later. Barker officially joined 808 State in 1989, the same year the Manchester band shared the popular single “Pacific State.” Throughout their career, Pacific State were lauded for their energetic blend of acid house and techno, and have released eight albums including 2019’s Transmission Suite. Tributes to Barker appeared on social media soon after news of his death broke: tears in my eyes. Andy Barker has passed. Gutted. Lovely lovely person. Will miss him so much. Had some great times with him. Some funny funny times. — Jon Dasilva (@jondasilva) November 7, 2021 Backstage at @WHP_Mcr with Andy @state808 @MarshallJeffers & @jondasilva ❤️ Rest In Peace Andy Barker. — Rowetta? (@Rowetta) November 7, 2021 These shows on Sunset Radio were phenomenal. This one is from 1990 https://t.co/QBTBQk3Kq5 RIP Andy Barker #Spinmasters #808State — Dave Haslam (@Mr_Dave_Haslam) November 7, 2021 After a night celebrating the unifying power of music at Homobloc, I’ve just heard about the passing of Andy Barker. Devastating news. He brought so much joy to the world. 808 forever. RIP my friend x — Justin Robertson (@robertsonjustin) November 7, 2021 RIP Andy Barker. Thank you for the magic — Real Lies (@_real_lies) November 8, 2021808 State announce death of member Andy Barker
Darren Partington and Andy Barker of 808 State. Photo by Tim Whitby/Getty Images for Yell.
I’ll miss the man, the music, everything ? pic.twitter.com/qRPiM3NmJn