Kraftwerk founder Florian Schneider has died aged 73.
The star formed the electronic group back in 1970, and their influence on pop music going forward s undeniable, with hits including Autobahn, The Model, and Computer Love.
The group is known for appearing as robots during their live shows, and their performances became legendary for their rigid appearance as they played.
Schneider left the band in 2008 after releasing 10 albums with Kraftwerk.
Tributes poured in following his passing, with Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark writing: “We are absolutely devastated to learn that one of our heroes Florian Schneider has passed away.”
We are absolutely devastated to learn that one of our heroes Florian Schneider has passed away. pic.twitter.com/Y2dnYfxkj8
— Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (@OfficialOMD) May 6, 2020
Spandau Ballet’s Gary Kemp also honoured the musician, adding: “Such an important influence upon so much of the music we know, from Bowie, to electronica, much of the 80s and beyond into modern techno and rap, Florian Schneider was forging a new Metropolis of music for us all to live in.”
Such an important influence upon so much of the music we know, from Bowie, to electronica, much of the 80s and beyond into modern techno and rap, Florian Schneider was forging a new Metropolis of music for us all to live in. RIP #FlorianSchneider #Kraftwerk pic.twitter.com/y2nXuAY66e
— Gary Kemp (@garyjkemp) May 6, 2020
Meanwhile, Ultravox singer Midge Ure commented the star was, “Way ahead of his time.”
Way ahead of his time. ?https://t.co/sbfeVEpSeZ
— midge ure (@midgeure1) May 6, 2020
Prior to his death, the group announced they were set to tour North America to celebrate their 50th anniversary.
The shows were cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
