Gil Scott-Heron Dies Aged 62

Eminem and Chuck D lead tributes…

Gil Scott-Heron has passed away in a New York hospital, aged 62.

The poet and singer, dubbed the godfather of hip-hop, fell ill after returning from a trip to Europe and died on 27 May, the BBC has reported.

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Chuck D was among the first to pay tribute to the rap legend, who is best known for track The Revolution Will Not Be Televised. "RIP GSH," he wrote on Twitter. "We do what we do and how we do because of you. And to those that don't know tip your hat with a hand over your heart & recognise."

The Public Enemy star also revealed that he had been working with Scott-Heron on his next album. He tweeted: "Quite stunned at the fact I just wrote and recorded guest vocals on one of his next albums. This makes one realise that time is precious, damn."

Eminem also paid tribute on Twitter: "RIP Gil Scott-Heron. He influenced all of hip-hop,” while Cee-Lo Green added: "Rest in peace to the GOD GIL SCOTT."

Gil was an outspoken campaigner for African-American rights in the 70s and 80s and spoke out against Apartheid and nuclear power. He was considered a major influence on today’s politically-aware rappers.

Last year he released the critically-acclaimed I’m New Here, his first studio album in 16 years.

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