Bobby Irwin: Drummer, producer and songwriter who worked with Van Morrison, Nick Lowe and Bryan Ferry

Bobby Irwin was a long-time studio and touring drummer with the singer and songwriter Nick Lowe, but he was probably best-known in the music business as the man behind the drum kit for Van Morrison on albums and on stages around the globe. “Bob was my favourite drummer,” Van the Man said on hearing of Irwin’s death from cancer, while Lowe wrote: “Bon viveur, waterman, fabulous drummer, wise and beloved friend of 40 years. RIP my dear, darling fellow. What larks.”

Irwin also played on albums by Bryan Ferry (including and ), Lene (2011) by the duo My Darling Clementine. He co-produced several albums, including Nick Lowe’s 2011 , and co-wrote a number of songs, notably, along with Lowe, “”, which became part of Elvis Costello’s repertoire. Irwin can be seen on several Nick Lowe pop videos including “”, shot at Lulworth Cove in Dorset, and “)”, featuring Huey Lewis on harmonica.