Artist News

Former bandmates pay tribute to Keith Emerson

By | Published on Monday 14 March 2016

Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Keith Emerson’s former Emerson, Lake & Palmer bandmates – Carl Palmer and Greg Lake – have paid tribute to the musician, following his death last week. The keyboard player died at some point during the night of 10 and 11 Mar at his home in Santa Monica, Los Angeles. It was later reported that he had taken his own life. He was 71.

“I would like to express my deep sadness upon hearing this tragic news”, said Lake. “As you know Keith and I spent many of the best years of our lives together and to witness his life coming to an end in the way that it has is painful, both to myself and to all who knew him”.

He continued: “As sad and tragic as Keith’s death is, I would not want this to be the lasting memory people take away with them. What I will always remember about Keith Emerson was his remarkable talent as a musician and composer and his gift and passion to entertain. Music was his life and despite some of the difficulties he encountered I am sure that the music he created will live on forever”.

Palmer added: “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 humour, 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”.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Emerson’s girlfriend Mari Kawaguchi said that the musician had been planning to retire from live performance after a series of upcoming shows in Japan. Nerve damage in his right arm had affected his ability to play for a number of years.

The makers of a documentary based on Emerson’s autobiography, ‘Pictures Of An Exhibitionist’, which is currently raising funds on Indiegogo, said that they were “in a state of shock”, but that “truly this project will be a celebration of his life, and a tribute to a fantastic musician and a great man”.

For support with issues relating to suicide, you can contact the Samaritans. Mind also publishes information on suicidal feelings and supporting someone who is experiencing them.



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