Keith Emerson has died at the age of 71. He was a founding member and keyboardist of Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Carl Palmer confirmed his death on Facebook.
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 [email protected]
Posted by Emerson, Lake & Palmer on Friday, March 11, 2016
Sources told TMZ that Emerson had 1 gunshot to the head when he was found. However, they could not confirm that it was a suicide.
Carl Palme wrote a statement on Facebook regarding Keith’s death.
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, 2016Posted by Carl Palmer on Friday, March 11, 2016
At the time Keith passed he had a degenerative nerve issue in his right hand which caused him to only be able to play the keyboard with 8 fingers. He knew his condition was only going to get worse and because of that, he was struggling with depression.
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