Today we say goodbye to another music great, as the announcement of the death of soul musician Allen Toussaint arrives, confirmed by the aggrieved family he leaves behind. Let it be noted that this legend was devoted to his art until the very end.

Allen ToussaintFarewell Allen Toussaint!

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee passed away in the early hours of the morning today (November 10th 2015), during his European tour while he had stopped over in Madrid. He was 77-years-old and while reports have suggested that the musician had a heart attack, cause of death is as yet unconfirmed. 

He'd kicked off his latest tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida, and had just a handful of dates left to go in cities including Antwerp, London and New York. Unfortunately, the tragic circumstances also mean that he won't be playing at the New Orleans Artists Against Hunger and Homelessness benefit concert on December 8th, where he was due to appear with his friend Paul Simon.

The New Orleans artist rose to fame in the 60s and 70s, producing and writing  hits for a wide range of other musicians including Irma Thomas, Benny Spellman and Elkie Brooks, while the songs themselves have seen numerous covers from contemporary artists. The Doors did a version of 'Get Out Of My Life Woman' in 1967, Paul Weller covered 'Hercules' in 2004 and Ringo Starr recorded a version of 'Sneakin' Sally Through The Alley'.

He'd collaborated with Elvis Costello on the 2006 album 'The River in Reverse', and his last noted solo album was 2013's 'Songbook'. 

Toussaint is survived by his son Clarence (aka Reginald) and daughter Alison, not to mention a host of grandchildren.