British jazz drummer Drew dies

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LONDON, Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Martin Drew, who spent three decades as a jazz drummer with Oscar Peterson's internationally acclaimed group, has died in London, his family said.

Drew's wife Tessa said the British musician, 66, died of a heart attack last week, The New York Times reported.

Drew first played with Peterson at a London nightclub where he was the house drummer, often accompanying visiting American jazz artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie.

He joined Peterson's group and performed around the world until shortly before Peterson's death in 2007.

Drew was born in Northampton, England, in 1944 and made his professional debut at age 13.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Jason, two daughters, Danielle and Michelle, and three granddaughters.