Keith Flint’s Prodigy bandmates have hailed the musician as a “true pioneer” after the 49-year-old was found dead at his home in Essex.
Band members Liam Howlett and Maxim Reality (real name Keith Palmer) released a statement confirming the sad news, describing Flint as a “brother” and “best friend.”
“It is with deepest shock and sadness that we can confirm the death of our brother and best friend Keith Flint,” they said.
“A true pioneer, innovator and legend. He will be forever missed.
“We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time.”
Flint’s death was announced on Monday morning, as a spokesperson for Essex Police told The Sun: “We were called to concerns for the welfare of a man at just after 8.10am on Monday.
“We attended and sadly, a 49-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.
“The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”
Standard Online has contacted a representative for Flint.
Music industry figures were quick to pay tribute to the star, with The Chemical Brothers’ Ed Simons describing him as a “great man” who was “always great fun to be around.”
Singer Beverley Knight said she was “heartbroken” by the news, and praised Flint as “a Titan” of music, while radio DJ Jo Whiley said that the “iconic frontman” was “an absolute sweetheart.”
The musician, who was instantly recognisable thanks to his colourful punk hairstyles, was originally recruited as The Prodigy’s dancer before providing lead vocals on their number one singles Firestarter and Breathe in 1996.
