Gerry Goffin has died aged 75.

The songwriter, who penned worldwide hits such as 'The Loco-Motion' and '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' with ex-wife Carole King, passed away at his home in Los Angeles from natural causes on Wednesday (18.06.14).

Carole paid tribute to her former husband and lyrical partner in a statement, saying: ''Gerry Goffin was my first love. He had a profound impact on my life and the rest of the world. Gerry was a good man and a dynamic force, whose words and creative influence will resonate for generations to come.

''His legacy to me is our two daughters, four grandchildren, and our songs that have touched millions and millions of people, as well as a lifelong friendship. He will be missed by his wonderful wife Michele, his devoted manager, Christine Russell, his five children, and six grandchildren.

''His words expressed what so many people were feeling but didn't know how to say. If you want to join his loved ones in honouring him, look at the names of the songwriters under the titles of songs. Among the titles associated with me, you'll often find Gerry's name next to mine.''

Gerry and Carole wed in 1959, when he was 20 and she was 17, and began songwriting together, penning hits such as 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow?' for The Shirelles and 'Pleasant Valley Sunday' for The Monkees.

The couple divorced in 1968 and Gerry later married Michele Goffin, who survives him.

After splitting from Carole both professionally and personally, the songwriter continued to enjoy success by co-writing songs such as 'Saving All My Love for You', which performed by the late Whitney Houston.