Terence William Harvey Cox, known professionally as Terry Cox, a revered British drummer whose innovative rhythms defined the sound of folk-jazz pioneers The Pentangle and graced countless iconic recordings, passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 89. He died in Maó, Menorca, Spain, where he had lived for many years. Media reports noted that no official cause of death has been given. Born on March 13, 1937, in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England, Cox’s distinctive style left an indelible mark on the music world, earning him respect as both a band member and a sought-after session artist.

Cox’s musical journey began in his hometown, where he honed his skills in local venues like the Cadena Club. His dedication led him to formal lessons with jazz musician Jack Peach, and by 1960, he had turned professional, quickly establishing himself as a versatile and imaginative drummer within the burgeoning UK jazz scene. In 1967, he co-founded The Pentangle, a groundbreaking folk-jazz supergroup, alongside guitarists Bert Jansch and John Renbourn, bassist Danny Thompson, and vocalist Jacqui McShee. His precise yet swinging drumming was integral to the band's unique fusion of British folk traditions with jazz improvisation and blues.

The band's debut album, "The Pentangle," released in 1968, showcased Cox's rhythmic foundation. Their subsequent releases, including the highly successful "Basket of Light" in 1969, further solidified their reputation, with Cox's drumming notably featured on tracks like "Light Flight," which became the theme for a BBC television series. Beyond his percussion work, Cox was a key songwriter for Pentangle, taking the lead on composing tracks such as "Springtime Promises" and "Helping Hand." His melodic ear and creative input were vital components of the group's enduringly influential catalog.

Beyond his work with The Pentangle, Terry Cox maintained a prolific career as a session drummer, lending his talents to a diverse array of artists. He famously played on David Bowie's self-titled 1969 debut album, which included the hit "Space Oddity," and contributed to Elton John's gold-selling 1970 self-titled album and the triple-platinum "Madman Across the Water" in 1971. He also played with the Bee Gees, replacing drummer Colin Petersen on their 1970 album "Cucumber Castle." Throughout his career, Cox collaborated with numerous other notable artists, including British blues pioneer Alexis Korner, pop idol Scott Walker, and traditional folk singer Shirley Collins.

From 1974 to 1982, Cox served as the regular drummer for the legendary French singer Charles Aznavour, touring and recording extensively with the international star. This period highlighted his adaptability and skill across different musical genres, from folk-jazz to cabaret. Terry Cox also participated in several Pentangle reunions, demonstrating his enduring connection to the band. During the group's 1982 reunion tour, which included dates in Italy and Australia, he famously performed in a wheelchair after breaking his leg in a road accident, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft.

In his later years, Terry Cox embraced a new chapter, reducing his touring schedule to run the Pan Y Vino restaurant in Menorca, Spain. Even while managing his restaurant, he continued to engage in occasional musical performances. In 2007, Cox and his original Pentangle bandmates were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, reuniting to perform together for the occasion. Following his passing, Pentangle released an official statement honoring Cox as "one of Pentangle's five points of light" and a "drummer of rare instinct and imagination." With his death, vocalist Jacqui McShee remains the sole surviving member of Pentangle's original classic lineup, marking the end of an era for a rhythm section that redefined the boundaries of folk and jazz.