Tributes come in for Gil Scott-Heron

Tributes from Chuck D, Eminem, Geoff Barrow, Richard Russel and more have spread over the web today, as news came in that Gil Scott-Heron's had sadly passed away at the age of 62.

XL Records, who signed Heron in 2009, issued the following tribute from label boss Richard Russel;

"He had a fierce intelligence, and a way with words which was untouchable; an incredible sense of humour and a gentleness and humanity that was unique to him. Gil shunned all the trappings of fame and success. He could have had all those things. But he was greater than that. He seemed wholly uninterested in money.said rthat Heron

To my knowledge he never accepted an award. He always wanted everyone else to receive credit for their work. He is the only artist I’ve ever worked with who requested that the studio engineers photo be given equal prominence to his own on his website.

His talent was immense. He was a a master lyricist, singer, orator, and keyboard player. His spirit was immense. He channeled something that people derived huge benefit from."

Eminem said that Heron "influenced all of hip hop", while Chuck D tweeted; "we do what we do and who we do because of you and to those that don't know, tip your hat with a hand over your heart & recognize."