Keith Emerson, founding member and keyboard player of Emerson, Lake & Palmer died yesterday (11th March), aged 71.
News of the death was announced by bandmate Carl Palmer. A statement reads: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and brother-in-music, Keith Emerson. 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.”
TMZ reports that Emerson died from a single gunshot wound to the head. The police are investigating the death as a suicide.