Words by Riley Fitzgerald
Graphic by Press

Ginger Baker, best known for his work in Cream and Ginger Baker’s Air Force is in poor health.

Rumors of Baker’s state have been confirmed by a Tweet from the drummer’s family.

“Ginger is critically ill in hospital,” their statement reads. “Please keep him in your prayers tonight.”

This is not the first time Baker has experienced health problems. The drummer suffered through a respiratory infection in 2013 and then faced serious heart problems in 2016.

Ginger first rose to prominence as one-third of power trio Cream. After the dissolution of the band in 1968, Baker then signed on with former bandmate Eric Clapton to form Blind Faith with Stevie Windwood. After this, his tastes turned to jazz fusion leading him to form Ginger Baker’s Airforce before eventually going solo. Baker then reunited with Cream in 2005 for a short run of performances at London’s Royal Albert Hall in London and New York’s Madison Square Garden.

Initially inspired by jazz, Baker’s innovative use of double bass drums has been highly influential upon subsequent generations of rock and heavy metal acts.