Tributes have poured in for late Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins.

The group confirmed his passing in a statement shared across social media, admitting they were “devastated” by the news.

“The Foo Fighters family is devastated by the tragic and untimely loss of our beloved Taylor Hawkins,” the band tweeted.

“His musical spirit and infectious laughter will live on with all of us forever.

“Our hearts go out to his wife, children and family, and we ask that their privacy be treated with the utmost respect in this unimaginably difficult time.”

Following news of his untimely death, aged 50, ahead of a gig at the Estereo Picnic festival in Bogota, Colombia, as part of a tour that was set to head to the UK this summer, figures from the world of pop paid their respects to the musician. 

Roger Taylor of Duran Duran shared in an extended note: “Greatly saddened to hear about the passing of Taylor Hawkins. 

“Whenever I saw Taylor play it always struck me that he embodied the spirit of punk, coupled with amazing technique and ability. One of the last true ‘rock star’ drummers of our time.

“I was truly honoured when I heard that you were in the audience at our last show in Vegas,” he added, concluding, “The Californian surf will miss you too Taylor!”

“This is just terrible news. Love and thoughts from all of us in the Numan camp to the Foo Fighters family,” said Gary Numan, while Boy George wrote: “God bless Taylor and his family and friends.”

Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus, who was part of the festival line-up Foo Fighters were set to play, revealed plans to dedicate her Saturday show to Hawkins.

“My favorite memory of Taylor is dancing round the drum kit while he played this song…” she posted on Instagram, with a picture of the Pretenders’ song Brass In Pocket.

“Playing it on repeat, imagining us laughing forever.”

Following an announcement to the crowd that Taylor had passed away, candles were lit on the stage where the band had been due to play.