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."
https://twitter.com/the_prodigy/status/1102547363305086978
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."
https://twitter.com/emilyeavis/status/1102569665883197442
https://twitter.com/AnnieMac/status/1102550664838873089
https://twitter.com/frankturner/status/1102534826488418304
https://twitter.com/jowhiley/status/1102533349464309760
