Andrew Barker dead aged 53: 808 State bassist & keyboardist dies as fans thank him for the ‘joy he brought with music’

ANDREW Barker, bassist and keyboard player with 80s dance act 808 State, has died.

The pioneering electronic group from Manchester announced Andrew’s death on their Twitter page today.

The post said: “It’s with a heavy heart to inform you of the passing of Andrew Barker.

“His family and friends asks that people respect their privacy at this time but remember him for the joy he brought through his personality and music.

“You’ll be sadly missed.”

Barker joined the acid house pioneers in 1989.

The group was initially formed by Graham Massey, Martin Price and Gerald Simpson in 1988.

The band were best known for their top 10 hit Pacific State.

Fans have paid tribute to Andrew after the shock announcement.

 fans wrote tributes to the electronic music group star.

One devastated fan typed: “I’m so sorry to hear of this very sad news. Sending my love and sharing my thoughts with you, Andrew’s family and his friends x.”