Rest in peace, Keith Emerson. A founding member of Emerson, Lake & Palmer and "a modern wizard of electronic and acoustic keyboards" passed away yesterday. He won't just be remembered for his musical genius but also for his showmanship. Watch the band's breakout performance at the Isle of Wight Festival in 1970 concluding with cannon fire and a solo performance featuring Keith turning an organ over on top of himself and stabbing his keyboard with a knife to hold down a note. Below is an official statement from Carl Palmer:

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and brother-in-music, Keith Emerson. 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. Rest in peace, Keith.

Ol Zircon, YouTube

keyboardgreatest, YouTube

 

 

 

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