March 11, 2016 was a dark day for progressive rock. The death of Keith Emerson, the famed keyboardist and composer for Emerson, Lake and Palmer, was announced to the world, and the circumstances were dark. Emerson was 71 years old and died as the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His body was found in his home in Santa Monica, and a medical examiner ruled Keith Emerson’s death a suicide.
Emerson had been struggling for some time. He had an alcohol habit, which exacerbated his depression as well as heart disease. According to his girlfriend at the time, Emerson had become more depressed, anxious, and nervous. He allegedly suffered from nerve damage that made it difficult for him to play the keyboard. He had concerts booked in Japan at the time and was worried he would disappoint his fans.
“Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance as a keyboard player will remain unmatched for many years to come,” said bandmate Carl palmer after Emerson’s death.
“As sad and tragic as Keith’s death is, I would not want this to be the lasting memory people take away with them,” said bandmate Greg Lake. “What I will always remember about Keith Emerson was his remarkable talent as a musician and composer and his gift and passion to entertain. Music was his life, and despite some of the difficulties he encountered, I am sure that the music he created will live on forever.”
To make things even sadder, Lake passed on later that year from pancreatic cancer.
Remembering the Legacy of Keith Emerson Before His Death
Keith Emerson is best known as a founding member of the supergroup Emerson, Lake & Palme. He formed the band with fellow progressive rock icons Greg Lake of King Crimson and Carl Palmer of Atomic Rooster. The outfit scored nine certified gold albums and sold millions of records around the world.
Today, the group is still considered one of the most commercially successful early progressive rock groups of the 1970s. Emerson, Lake & Palmer called it quits in 1979, but got back together several times in the 1990s and 2010s. Records like their self-titled debut and the 1971 album Tarkus are essential listening.
Emerson was also known for his work in the band The Nice, another early progressive rock outfit that found success in the 1960s. They were known for their unique blend of prog, jazz, and classical music. Emerson was their keyboardist from 1967 to 1970, and returned to the band for a brief reunion in 2002.
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