The band confirmed his death in a social media statement, sharing condolences with his family and remembering him as a member of the Saxon family.
The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians, friends and fans, many of whom remembered Durham for his drumming talent and warm personality.
Saxon announced the sad news on its official Facebook page, expressing sympathy for Durham’s loved ones.
“We are very sad to hear of the passing of a member of the Saxon family, former drummer Nigel Durham,” the band wrote. It also sent its love and thoughts to his wife, Lauretta, daughter Gemma, grandchildren and wider family.
No cause of death has been publicly announced.
Saxon’s Nigel Glockler Pays Tribute to His Friend
Saxon drummer Nigel Glockler also shared a personal message following Durham’s death.
“RIP my friend, Nigel Durham — I will see you on the other side,” Glockler wrote on Facebook, sending love and strength to Durham’s wife, daughter and family.
The tribute carried particular significance because Durham had temporarily taken over Glockler’s place in the band during the late 1980s.
Nigel Durham’s Time With Saxon
Durham played drums for Saxon between 1987 and 1988, stepping in for Glockler during that period.
He performed on the band's 1988 album Destiny, contributing to a key chapter in Saxon's long-running heavy metal career.
Although his time with the group was relatively brief, Durham remained connected to its musical legacy. News of his death spread quickly across social media, where musicians and others who knew him shared their memories.
Musicians and Friends Remember Durham
Tributes highlighted not only Durham’s abilities behind the drum kit but also the friendships he built throughout his career.
Rockem Music Drum & Guitar Centre remembered him as a talented musician and a friend of the shop, saying they would miss their conversations with him.
“Another great musician passes. Nigel Durham Ex Saxon Drummer, Oliver Dawson drummer. Great player and good friend of the shop. Will miss our chats,” the business wrote on Facebook.
Matt Black, who said he had played alongside Durham in the Matt Black Band, also shared his sadness.
Black remembered Durham as a kind person and a powerful drummer, reflecting on their time working together in a musical project.
“An absolute gent, lovely person and a real powerhouse of a drummer. You will be sadly missed,” he wrote.
Another tribute came from Neil Benton, who recalled knowing Durham as an old school friend.
“RIP Nigel Durham top drummer and top guy,” Benton wrote.
A Lasting Memory Among Fellow Musicians
Durham's death has brought together tributes from across the music community, with many remembering him as both a skilled performer and a valued friend.
His time with Saxon placed him within the history of one of Britain's best-known heavy metal bands, while his work with other musicians helped him build relationships that continued beyond the stage.
As friends and fellow musicians mourn his passing, messages of support have also been directed towards his wife, daughter, grandchildren and other family members.
Durham was 61. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
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