Keith Emerson (1944—2016)

[pokerfan]

Keyboardist and progressive rock legend Keith Emerson has died aged 71, his former band Emerson, Lake and Palmer says.

"We regret to announce that Keith Emerson died last night at his home in Santa Monica, Los Angeles," the band's Facebook page said.

The statement asked for his family's privacy and grief to be respected.

Emerson was widely considered one of the top keyboard players of the progressive rock era.

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-35787187

[TM99]

1. NO!

Fuck. Emerson was my inspiration for learning to play the piano. He and Rick Wakeman were gods to me as a kid. I played their pieces whenever I could sneak the past my very strict classical teacher.

I am sad.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

2. Goddammit !!

Last edited Fri Mar 11, 2016, 06:44 PM - Edit history (1)

I wanted to be Rick Wakeman too! I was quite impressed with their(Yes, EL&P) classical chops. Loved Emerson's playing too. A fellow pianist mourns with you.

RIP Keith, safe journey to you.

Well done, Keith.

[GreydeeThos]

3. RIP Keith Emerson

[Ryano42]

4. Keith...

I thank my late brother for introducing me to ELP as a kid...I hope you find peace and that perfect sound.

[Archae]

6. That panel to the left looks like the back of my computer.

RIP Keith, you were one of the greats.

[lame54]

5. Brain Salad Surgery is one of my all-time favorites...

I used to drive my friends crazy because I played it so much

[whistler162]

7. This years theme song is Queen's

Another One Bites the Dust.

A lot of musicians have passed so far this year.

[Enthusiast]

8. I was fortunate enough to see ELP perform in 1970.

It was a flawless performance. The concert consisted almost entirely of the first LP as it was the only material they had at the time. But I like the first LP best of all anyway.

[Number9Dream]

9. RIP Keith - Saw ELP a couple times, last was "Black Moon" tour

http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/11/entertainment/keith-emerson-dies-feat/

ELP drummer Carl Palmer confirmed the death of his longtime band mate.

"Keith Emerson's death is currently being investigated as a suicide," said Sgt. Erika Aklufi of the Santa Monica Police Department.

A suicide would be especially tragic.

[Nac Mac Feegle]

10. Sadly, it looks like suicide.

Greg Lake seems to imply that Keith had had problems with depression for a long time.

There are also reports of a degenerative disease or nerve damage to his right arm / hand, limiting his ability to play.

Someone so dedicated to the 'perfection' of his performances would take that sort of limitation very hard. Coupled with an underlying conflict of self - judgement of performances, it doesn't seem surprising. Although it is tragic and shocking.

If you see someone struggling, be a friend if possible. It may help.