Canned Heat star dies

The former frontman of legendary blues rock band CANNED HEAT has died of a drugs overdose.

Robert Lucas, 46, passed away at a friend's house in Long Beach, California on Sunday (23Nov08).

Lucas was one of four singers to have fronted the band during their 40-year career. Original singer Bob 'The Bear' Hite died of a heart attack in 1981.
Lucas recently left the group to pursue a solo career.

His former manager, Skip Taylor, paid tribute to the rocker: "His unequaled fury and stage presence, together with his earth-shattering vocal delivery, gave him the ability to channel many of the blues masters through his words, songs and musical ability. He has been recognized by blues fans and critics worldwide as one of the most inspired singer, player and songwriter talents of the past decade."
Lucas is survived by his parents, sister and a teenage son.