The Prodigy’s Keith Flint dies aged 49

The Prodigy star Keith Flint has died aged 49.

Instantly recognisable for his fluorescent spiked hair and incendiary performances, the musician sang lead vocals on both the band’s number one singles, Breathe and Firestarter.

He was found dead at his home in Dunmow, Essex, on Monday morning.

The band, who were due to tour the US in May, confirmed his death in a statement, remembering Flint as a “true pioneer, innovator and legend”.

In a post on The Prodigy’s official Instagram account, bandmate Liam added: “I can’t believe I’m saying this but our brother Keith took his own life over the weekend.

“I’m shell-shocked… angry, confused and heart broken.”

Fans and friends flooded Twitter with tributes as news of the star’s death spread.

The Chemical Brothers’ Ed Simons remembered him as “a great man” who was “always great fun to be around”.Radio 2 DJ Jo Whiley described Flint as “an absolute sweetheart” and “iconic frontman”; and dance duo Chase & Status said: “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Keith and the life changing music they made and championed.

Born Keith Charles Flint on 17 September 1969, the star had an unhappy childhood in Braintree, Essex, feuding with his parents, who split when he was young.

Their music matured on their second album, Music For The Jilted Generation, which saw Howlett incorporate breakbeats, guitar loops and hip-hop samples on tracks like No Good (Start The Dance) and Voodoo People.

The album was nominated for a Mercury Music Prize – but the band truly went global when Flint grabbed the mic and unleashed the full fury of his voice on the abrasive, in-your-face rave-rock anthem Firestarter.

SOURCE : bbc.com