The Specials frontman Terry Hall has died aged 63.
Writing on Twitter, the band said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing, following a brief illness, of Terry, our beautiful friend, brother and one of the most brilliant singers, songwriters and lyricists this country has ever produced.
“Terry was a wonderful husband and father and one of the kindest, funniest, and most genuine of souls.
“His music and his performances encapsulated the very essence of life… the joy, the pain, the humour, the fight for justice, but mostly the love.
“He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him and leaves behind the gift of his remarkable music and profound humanity. Terry often left the stage at the end of The Specials’ life-affirming shows with three words…”Love Love Love.”
The statement also called on everyone to “respect the family’s privacy at this very sad time”.
News the musician had died saw him trending on Twitter as thousands of fans paid their respects.
Fellow singer and songwriter, Midge Ure, described Hall’s death as “dreadful news”.
His distinctive voice features on The Specials’ best known hits, including Ghost Town, Too Much, Too Young and Gangsters.