Famous keyboardist John Gosling of 'The Kinks' dead at 75

The music world, especially fans of the British rock genre, lost an absolute legend this week.

According to Fox News, John Gosling, a keyboardist for The Kinks, died Friday at the age of 75. No cause of death has been revealed as of this writing.

The musician, known as "John The Baptist" was an integral part of the British rock scene, and inspired a number of American artists in the years following The Kinks' success.

Fox News noted:

He performed on 10 albums throughout eight years with the influential rock group, including "Muswell Hillbillies" and "Everybody’s in Show-Biz."

He joined the band in 1970, and his audition was the recording session for "Lola."

Several statements and condolences from those closest to Gosling were published, including messages from former bandmates and the band itself.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of John Gosling. We are sending our condolences to John's wife and family," the band wrote in a touching tribute to the famous, classically trained pianist.

We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of John Gosling. We are sending our condolences to John's wife and family. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/eFl5n6MQfB

— The Kinks (@TheKinks) August 4, 2023

"I’m dismayed deeply upset by John Gosling’s passing. He has been a friend and important contributor to the Kinks music during his time with us. Deepest sympathies to his wife and family. I will hold deep affection and love for him in my heart always. Great musician and a great man," wrote The Kinks' lead guitarist Dave Davies.

I'm dismayed, deeply upset by John Gosling's passing. … https://t.co/53Wk8ZLxmp

— Dave Davies (@davedavieskinks) August 5, 2023

"Today we lost a dear friend and colleague, he was a great musician and had a fantastic sense of humour... which made him popular member of the band, he leaves us with some happy memories. God Bless him...." wrote the band's drummer, Mick Avory.

Fox noted that at one point, Gosling was asked how his life might be different had he not joined the band when he did.

"No idea- but music would have always occupied a major part of it I’m sure. Or I might have just become a unicorn exterminator," Gosling replied.

It's no surprise that an outpouring of tributes and messages of support flooded social media after the news of his death was made public.

I'm just seeing this now but John Gosling (pictured in front with the beard) keyboardist for The Kinks has passed away. Always loved his contribution to the band's sound RS pic.twitter.com/6MzcOvtWt1

— Ron Sexsmith 💙 (@RonSexsmith) August 5, 2023