English composer and keyboardist Keith Emerson has passed away aged 71. His friend and colleague, drummer Carl Palmer posted the following announcement via his official Facebook page:

“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. Rest in peace, Keith.

Carl Palmer
March 11, 2016″

EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER stated via their official Facebook page:

“Keith Emerson (1944 – 2016)

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.

For any other enquires, please contact management@qedg.co.uk”

Keith Emerson  was well known for his work in the Keith Emerson Trio, John Brown’s Bodies, The T-Bones, The V.I.P.’s, P.P. Arnold‘s backing band The Nice, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), one of the early supergroups, as well as Emerson Lake & Powell.