Keith Emerson

Keith Emerson, founding member and keyboardist of Emerson, Lake and Palmer, died Friday. He was 71. "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and brother-in-music, Keith Emerson," Carl Palmer wrote upon his passing, "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."

After discovering the Hammond and Moog in his teenage years, Emerson grew into one of the greatest keyboardists of his generation, first as a member of The Nice before founding Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Emerson was a key part in bringing electronic music to the forefront and for many of us our introduction to the worlds of classical and jazz. He will be greatly missed, but will remain a part of our lives. "I think playing music of the greats such as Mussorgsky or Alberto Ginastera can be an explosive experience, Emerson said. "The energy just comes at you." Thanks for the energy, Keith.