Gil Scott-Heron

In the 1970s and '80s, Gil set the political tone for generations with biting commentary on Richard Nixon and Watergate; criticism of Ronald (Ronnie the Ray-gun) Reagan's regressive policies; fiery commitment to the Free Mandela movement; haunting warnings on nuclear energy plants and the dangers of substance abuse; and an overall critique of American imperialism with his classic Winter in America, among other memorable work. For more than a decade, he performed around the world with his friend Brian Jackson and a host of talented musicians in groups called the Midnight Band and, later, the Amnesia Express.

But he didn't stop there. Throughout the 1990s and the first decade of the new millennium, Gil's was a voice for peace, encouraging individual action in his stage monologues and through his lyrics as he added to his body of work that includes more than 30 albums.

Hip-hop artists dubbed Gil Scott-Heron the "godfather of rap," and while he appreciated the recognition from a new generation of fans, he did not embrace the label; rather, he humorously referred to himself as a "bluesologist." Indeed, the poetry and harmony of his work reflected genres from blues to jazz to R&B and more.

He deepened his influence in Europe over the past two decades, and was an artist with XL Recordings at the time of his death. XL released Gil's final album, "I'm New Here," in 2010.

To his children, siblings, godchildren, extended family and friends, Gil's love of laughter and his giving spirit define him as much as his brilliant contributions as a writer (seven books), philosopher, teacher, mentor, poet and musician. By listening to Gil's music and interviews and by reading his memoir "The Last Holiday" (in large part, a tribute to Stevie Wonder's contributions to ensuring a national Martin Luther King holiday, set for release by Canongate/Grove Atlantic on Jan. 16, 2012 ), you will come to know much about this shooting star whose impact will last eternally.