Lou Reed Dead Aged 71

MusicianLou Reed has passed away, aged 71.

According to Rolling Stone, the founding member of legendary group The Velvet Underground died today (October 27), after losing his battle with liver disease.

The singer did undergo a liver transplant in May this year, and the following the operation, he described himself as "bigger and stronger" than ever.

After shooting to fame in the 1960s as a guitarist, singer and songwriter of The Velvet Underground, Reed kick started his solo career in 1972.

His solo hits included Perfect Day, Walk on the Wild Side and Satellite of Love.

The last album Lou made was 2011 collaborative LP Lulu, with rockers Metallica.

Tributes have been flooding in on Twitter for Reed, with The Who writing: "R.I.P. Lou Reed. Walk on the peaceful side."

Simply Red star Mick Hucknall added: "RIP Lou Reed 71. You defined New York City. Too f****** young. Wayy too young. Berlin one of my most loved albums."

Miley Cyrus tweeted: "Noooooooooo notttttttttt LOU REED."

Paramore singer Hayley Williams said: "Damn. Rest In Peace."

Ricky Gervais wrote: "RIP Lou Reed. One of the greatest artists of our time."

TV presenter Jonathan Ross noted: "RIP Lou Reed. A great talent, a nice man, a sad day."

Reed leaves behind wife Laurie Anderson, who he married in 2008.

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