THE US: Trubutes flowed in yesterday for John Entwistle, bass guitarist with the rock group The Who, who died of a suspected heart attack aged 57 on Thursday.
The group was about to begin a North American tour when Mr Entwistle was found dead in a Las Vegas, Nevada, hotel.
"The entire Who family is terribly saddened by John's passing," his manager said. "Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends and the millions of Who fans the world over."
Fellow Who members Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey were said to be too upset to comment, but they posted a message to their friend, affectionately called "the Ox".
"The Ox has left the building - we've lost another great friend. Thanks for your support and love. Pete and Roger," they wrote on Mr Townshend's website.
Bill Wyman of the Rolling Stones, another bass guitarist, called Mr Entwistle "a great friend for many years - the quietest man in private but the loudest on stage. He was unique and irreplaceable - I am shocked and devastated."
Fan sites also carried many tributes - www.thewho.net changed its front page in Mr Entwistle's honour. "Dear John, Thank you for all the wonderful music and wonderful times - you will live forever in our hearts and our minds. Sincerely, Scott C. Smith," the page read.
Mr Entwistle's family said his death had left "an irreplaceable void", and thanked fans and friends for their support.
- (Reuters)