The 49-year-old, found dead in his home on Monday morning, has been hailed as a “pioneer” by bandmates
The former bandmates of Keith Flint, the central figure of UK electronic band The Prodigy, have led an array of tribute to the 49-year-old and confirmed that he took his own life.
The Prodigy DJ and co-founder Liam Howlett wrote on the band’s official Instagram: “The news is true, I can’t believe I’m saying this but our brother Keith took his own life over the weekend. I’m shell shocked, fuckin angry [sic], confused and heartbroken… r.i.p, brother Liam.”
The band also posted a statement on Twitter, hailing Flint as a “pioneer” for his role in their seven studio albums, six of which went to No. 1 in the UK.
“It is with deepest shock and sadness that we can confirm the death of our brother and best friend Keith Flint,” it read. “A true pioneer, innovator and legend. He will be forever missed. We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time.”
It is with deepest shock and sadness that we can confirm the death of our brother and best friend Keith Flint. A true pioneer, innovator and legend. He will be forever missed.
We thank you for respecting the privacy of all concerned at this time. pic.twitter.com/nQ3Ictjj7t— The Prodigy (@the_prodigy) March 4, 2019
Fellow big beat pioneers The Chemical Brothers posted their tribute to Flint having risen to fame in the scene era as The Prodigy.
“So sad to hear about Keith Flint, we played many gigs with The Prodigy over the years and they were always friendly and supportive. He was an amazing front man, a true original and he will be missed. tom&ed x,” read their tweet.
Ed Simons added his own social media channel: “Oh gosh, so sad to hear about Keith Flint, he was always great fun to be around and very kind to Tom and I when we first started doing shows together… great man.”
Glastonbury organiser Emily Eavis revealed that the band were booked for the 2019 festival. They had only finished a tour of Australia last month and had also planned shows in London and across the United States.
“We are so saddened to hear the news about the passing of Keith Flint,” wrote Eavis. “He’s played here so many times over the years with the Prodigy and was booked to play this year. What an incredible frontman, he gave us all so much life and energy. Here’s a clip from ‘97 when they became the first dance band to headline Glastonbury – a huge moment for us which we will never forget.”
We are so saddened to hear about the passing of Keith Flint. He’s played here so many times with the Prodigy and was booked for 2019. What an incredible frontman. Here’s a clip from ‘97 when they were the first dance band to headline Glastonbury – a huge, unforgettable moment. pic.twitter.com/9fxKBonfVa
— Emily Eavis (@emilyeavis) March 4, 2019
This is such awful news. My heart goes out to The Prodigy and to Keith’s loved ones. Uk music has lost a hero. https://t.co/5HF9xuxngP
— Annie Mac (@anniemacmanus) March 4, 2019
Absolutely gutted to hear about Keith Flint's passing. One of the greats. Best live show I ever saw. RIP.
— Frank Turner (@frankturner) March 4, 2019
Oh this is sad news. The death of Keith Flint. Whenever our paths crossed he was an absolute sweetheart. Really lovely. Incredible iconic frontman with a soft centre. 😓#RIPKeithFlint
— Jo Whiley (@jowhiley) March 4, 2019
