Martin Duffy - known for his work with bands The Charlatans and Primal Scream - has died aged 55.
Duffy's first venture into professional music was in 1985 with the band Felt after seeing an advert in Birmingham, UK, asking: "Do you want to be a rock’n’roll star?"
He remained with Felt until 1989. After the band split he revealed that he had hit his goal of releasing 10 singles and 10 albums in 10 years.
Duffy then featured in Scottish rock band Primal Scream's first two albums; 1987’s Sonic Flower Groove and 1989’s Primal Scream, per the Guardian.
After The Charlatans' keyboardist Rob Collins passed away, Duffy stepped into his shoes and as the band supported Oasis at Knebworth in August 1996 and also played a part in their 1997 album Tellin’ Stories.
It was The Charlatans lead singer Tim Burgess who today (December 20) revealed that Duffy has sadly passed away.
He released this statement on Twitter: "Another tragic loss of a beautiful soul. Martin Duffy stepped in to save The Charlatans when we lost Rob - he played with us at Knebworth and was a true friend. He toured with me in my solo band too - he was a pleasure to spend time with. Safe travels Duffy."
Tributes have been pouring in on social media to the late musician as fans pay their respects to a man who gave a lot to the world of music.
One person said: "RIP Martin Duffy. Felt's Forever Breathes The Lonely Word is one of my very favourite albums, and Martin's organ is the thing that gives it its celestial, timeless, placeless flavour. An incredible contribution to a lovely thing."
A second added: "Duffy was part of the iconic Knebworth set that was better than Oasis on the day in terms of emotion and grit. RIP Martin Duffy."
Duffy collaborated with many artists during his career, including Chemical Brothers, Paul Weller, Subway Sect, and Jessie Buckley on the 2018 movie Wild Rose.
In 2014 he released a solo album titled Assorted Promenades which was inspired by Duffy and Burgess witnessing a car setting ablaze on the side of a road. The album featured music dating back to 1997.
The cause of death has not yet been revealed, and his family has not commented.
Our thoughts are with Martin Duffy's friends, family, and fans at this time.