Sad news this morning as it has been announced that Terry Hall, frontman of iconic ska band The Specials, has died.
The band broke the news to fans late last night with an emotional statement that said the 63-year-old had died following a short illness.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing, following a brief illness, of Terry, our beautiful friend, brother and one of the most brilliant singers, songwriters and lyricists this country has ever produced," it read.
"Terry was a wonderful husband and father and one of the kindest, funniest, and most genuine of souls. His music and his performances encapsulated the very essence of life… the joy, the pain, the humour, the fight for justice, but mostly the love.
"He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him and leaves behind the gift of his remarkable music and profound humanity. Terry often left the stage at the end of The Specials’ life-affirming shows with three words…“Love Love Love”. We would ask that everyone respect the family’s privacy at this very sad time."
Hall joined The Specials soon after their formation in 1977 and the Coventry band went on to become one of the most influential British bands of their era.
After the band's initial split in 1981, Hall went on to form Fun Boy Three with bandmates Lynval Golding and Neville Staple - although The Specials would eventually reunite. He also collaborated extensively over the years with everyone from Sinead O'Connor to Gorillaz to D12.
The Specials' last Irish gig was a sold-out date at the Trinity Summer Series last July.
Hall is survived by his wife Jeanette and sons Theo and Felix.
Fans and friends have been paying tribute to him on social media...
