The entertainment world has led tributes to Bee Gees singer Robin Gibb after the “musical giant” lost a lengthy battle with cancer at the age of 62.
Broadcaster Paul Gambaccini said the performer and songwriter was “talented beyond even his own understanding” and dubbed him as “one of the important figures in the history of British music”.
Stars including rock star Bryan Adams and singer songwriter Mick Hucknall also paid emotional tributes.
Mr Gambaccini said: “Everyone should be aware that the Bee Gees are second only to Lennon and McCartney as the most successful songwriting unit in British popular music.
“Their accomplishments have been monumental. Not only have they written their own number-one hits, but they wrote huge hit records for others.
“What must also be said is Robin had one of the best white soul voices ever. He was singing lead on his first number one when he was 17, that was Massachusetts.” Many people took to micro blogging site Twitter to pay their respects.
A statement posted by Sony Music said: “Rest in peace, Robin Gibb. Thanks for the music.”
Former British deputy Prime Minister John Prescott wrote: “Just heard about Robin Gibb.
“A good friend, a brilliant musician and a man who turned all of us into wannabe Travoltas!
“Rest in peace Robin.”
Canadian rocker Mr Adams was also among the stars paying tribute, saying: “Robin Gibb RIP. Very sad to hear about yet another great singer dying too young.”
While British singer songwriter Mick Hucknall wrote: “RIP Robin Gibb. A musical giant,” while former X Factor judge Dannii Minogue said: “We start believin’ now that we can be who we are − Grease is the word...RIP Robin Gibb.”
Eighties rock band Duran Duran also posted on their feed: “Sorry to hear about the passing of Robin Gibb of the BeeGees. Our condolences to his friends and family.”
Radio disc jockey Mike Read, who was a family friend of Mr Gibb, said the singer had an “incredible voice”.
“Robin had the voice, the pathos, and he was a great writer,” he added in remarks to BBC Radio 5 Live.
“He had a gift for melody and a gift for lyrics and left a phenomenal legacy, a phenomenal catalogue.”