Prog rock hero Keith Emerson dies

Former Chiddingly man who famously played keyboard for Emerson Lake and Palmer (ELP) has died age 71.
Keith Emerson with Findon resident Lyle MilnerKeith Emerson with Findon resident Lyle Milner
Keith Emerson with Findon resident Lyle Milner

Keith once owned Stonehill House, near Chiddingly and sent his children to Bede’s Preparatory School in Eastbourne.

Police in Santa Monica confirmed that the music legend died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

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A woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, worked with Keith at Lloyds Bank in Worthing around 1962 ‘because his mum told him to get a real job’.

She said: “I got the impression it was his first job there.

“He was quiet and a gentle man. He used to have a short haircut and wear a nice suit.

“He’d changed so much since then but he was a lovely chap.

“And he was mad about the music.”

Before ELP, Keith was a member of Worthing band The Black Aces with lead guitarist Lyle Milner from Findon and bass player Paddy Lovelock from Ferring.

To read more about The Black Aces and an interview with Paddy who recalls his days with Keith, click here

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Did you know Keith, meet him or work with him? Leave your comments and tributes below.

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