The Rolling Stones have paid tribute to their saxophonist Bobby Keys, who has died at the age of 70.
The musician played the sax for the band for many years, and Mick Jagger and his bandmates have released a statement sharing their sadness following his death.
Bobby Keys
Bobby appeared on stage with the band at Glastonbury in 2013, however he was forced to pull out of their 2014 tour of Australia and New Zealand, due to poor health.
The BBC reports that the cause of death is currently unknown.
A statement from the band, posted on Facebook, reads: “Early this morning our beloved husband, father, family member, and friend passed away peacefully at home in Franklin,TN.
“Bobby was surrounded by his family and loved ones. He will be greatly missed as he touched so many lives and made a lasting contribution to the American music scene.
“Bobby's horn may be silenced here on Earth, but the music he graciously shared will eternally live on. In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family asks that contributions be made to St Jude's Children Research Hospital and The Humane Society in his honor.”
In a separate statement, Keith Richards adds: "I have lost the largest pal in the world and I can't express the sense of sadness I feel although Bobby would tell me to cheer up."
Bobby can be heard playing the sax on a number of Stones’ tracks, including ‘Brown Sugar’.
During his decades in the music business, he also played with stars including Buddy Holly and Eric Clapton.
