Mick Fleetwood has paid tribute to Peter Green after his fellow Fleetwood Mac co-founder died aged 73.
The musician, also 73, called Green his "dearest friend" in a touching tribute he made just hours after the news broke on Saturday evening.
He said the two of them "trail blazed one hell of a musical road for so many to enjoy" when they formed the iconic band.
Fleetwood said: "For me, and every past and present member of Fleetwood Mac, losing Peter Green is monumental.
"Peter was the man who started the band Fleetwood Mac along with myself, John McVie, and Jeremy Spencer.
"No one has ever stepped into the ranks of Fleetwood Mac without a reverence for Peter Green and his talent, and to the fact that music should shine bright and always be delivered with uncompromising passion."
He added: "Peter, I will miss you, but rest easy your music lives on.
"I thank you for asking me to be your drummer all those years ago.
"We did good, and trail blazed one hell of a musical road for so many to enjoy.
"God speed to you, my dearest friend……. Love Mick Fleetwood."
It comes after Green's death confirmed by his solicitors on Saturday evening.
The statement said: "It is with great sadness that the family of Peter Green announce his death this weekend, peacefully in his sleep.
"A further statement will be provided in the coming days."
Fleetwood and Green formed Fleetwood Mac in 1967.
Green left Fleetwood Mac after a final performance in 1970 as he struggled with mental health difficulties.
He was eventually diagnosed with schizophrenia and spent time in hospitals undergoing electro-convulsive therapy during the mid-70s.
The band was originally called Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac featuring Jeremy Spencer.
Speaking to the PA news agency in 1992, Fleetwood described Green as "a major talent that to this day holds out."
He added: "I consider myself very lucky to have even played with him.
"Of course it upsets me but there's nothing I can do about it. It's his life. I haven't seen him for years."
