Keith Emerson, a founding member of British progressive rock group Emerson, Lake and Palmer has died at the age of 71.
The keyboardist died at his home in California on Thursday night, the band confirmed.
On the group’s official Facebook page, a statement read: “We regret to announce that Keith Emerson died last night at his home in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, aged 71.
“We ask that the family’s privacy and grief be respected.”
Emerson, Lake and Palmer were formed in London in 1970 and became one of the most popular bands of the decade.
The band produced seven studio albums in the 1970s before they disbanded in 1979.
The group reformed in 1991 and released two further albums.
His bandmate Carl Palmer described him as a “musical genius” across rock, classical and jazz genres.
In a statement, he wrote: “Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance as a keyboard player will remain unmatched for many years to come.
“He was a pioneer and an innovator whose musical genius touched all of us in the worlds of rock, classical and jazz.
“I will always remember his warm smile, good sense of humor, compelling showmanship and dedication to his musical craft.
“I am very lucky to have known him and to have made the music we did together."