Legendary keyboardist Keith Emerson of the British progressive rock band Emerson, Lake and Palmer died at the age of 71 on Friday in Los Angeles. BBC reported that the Santa Monica police found him with a single gunshot wound to his head, and the case is being investigated as that of a suicide. Emerson along with guitarist Greg Lake (formerly of King Crimson) and drummer Carl Palmer started EPL in 1970. Among their most popular works are the albums Tarkus, Trilogy, and Brain Salad Surgery.

"We regret to announce that Keith Emerson died last night at his home in Santa Monica, Los Angeles," read a statement on the band's Facebook page. Emerson was also known for his outlandish on-stage theatrics inspired by guitarist Jimi Hendrix. "That part of the act was something that just felt natural to do; something that allowed me be more expressive," he had told Counterculture magazine.

Former band mate Carl Palmer said: "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and brother-in-music, Keith Emerson. He 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." According to RollingStone magazine, EPL broke up several times and reunited, till they came together in 2010 for one final gig after a 12-year-break in London's High Voltage Festival. Outside EPL, Emerson pursued a solo career and remained active in the music business. He last performed in July 2015 alongside the BBC Concert Orchestra in a tribute to Robert Moog in London.