Singer Leslie West has died at the age of 75 after his “heart gave out”, it is confirmed.
Leslie’s brother Larry West Weinstein revealed the heartbreaking news that Leslie’s health was in serious decline just before Christmas in a Facebook post.
In the Facebook post, Larry wrote: “I am asking for all your prayers. [West’s wife] Jenni is by his side in Florida but it’s not looking good.
“Thanks Jenni, he wouldn’t have made it this far without you.
“His heart gave out and he’s on a ventilator. May not make it through the night.”
Musician Leslie West, co-founder of Mountain, has passed away after suffering a heart attack (Image: Getty Images)
The Dean Guitars Company then announced the star’s death not long later.
They said: “With a heavy heart, we are saddened to hear about the passing of Dean Artist and part of the Dean family, Leslie West.
“Legendary and one of a kind. Rest In Peace.”
However, an exact cause of Leslie’s death it yet to be revealed, it is reported.
Leslie was the founder of the band, Mountain (Image: Getty Images)
Following his death, emotional tributes have poured in to honour the star’s life.
Twisted Sister songwriter Dee Snider tweeted: “The final hours on this earth for the amazing Leslie West of Mountain.
“His voice and guitar will be silenced but his music will live forever.
“I am heartbroken. Prayers for him and his amazing wife, his rock, Jenni who is with him now.”
Dee continued by honouring her friends’ music achievements which meant so much to him.
She said: “Leslie West and Mountain are one of the founding fathers of heavy metal. His explosive, powerful guitar playing and seering solos helped define the genre.
“Attending guitarists gatherings with Leslie I saw ALL guitarists bow down before him (yes even @eddievanhalen). And his influence on HIP HOP (You heard me!) is undeniable.’ She added: ‘His song Long Read has been sampled on over 750 hip hop tracks including Jay-Z 99 Problems.
“What an incredible force @lwestmountain was! He’s still with us, but leaving very soon. Love and prayers for you my friend.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
