Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson, the lead singer of The Selecter, a 2-Tone band from Coventry, has passed away after a brief illness. In a statement, the band paid tribute to their former lead singer as a “2-Tone original, a talented musician, and an absolute gentleman.” The Coventry band was formed in 1979 and was recognised for its politically charged lyrics.
Hendrickson’s family announced his passing in a message to the press, and his former bandmate, Pauline Black OBE, posted a heartfelt message on her Facebook page. They expressed their grief and shared that Gaps died in Coventry, the place where he gained his fame. Upon the release of their debut album ‘Too Much Pressure,’ the band released five top 40 singles in the UK. The hit single captured the frustration of the working-class through its evocative lyrics.
Before Gaps passed, he was actively performing and was even a guest artist with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra during their autumn/winter tour in 2023, despite being diagnosed with cancer. Gaps will be sorely missed by those who loved him, his family said.
The music scene in Coventry emerged during the 1970s, with bands like The Selecter and The Specials playing a central role in its growth. Hendrickson’s passing is a significant loss to both the Coventry music scene and fans of The Selecter. Funeral arrangements will be announced later
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