Tributes have been pouring in for Frankie Knuckles, the pioneer of house music who died on Monday night (March 31) aged 59. Knuckles relocated to Chicago from New York City in the 1970s, delighting audiences with his sprawling epic sets at his clubs The Warehouse and The Power Plant.

Frankie Knuckles

Frankie's close friend and associate David Morales tweeted: "I am devastated to write that my dear friend Frankie Knuckles has passed away today. Can't write anymore than this at the moment. I'm sorry."

Fellow DJ Roger Sanchez said: "Yes unfortunately it is true- Frankie Knuckles has passed on today. I can't begin to count the ways he influenced me but I will never forget."

Pete Tong said: "R.I.P  #GodfatherOfHouse Frankie Knuckles R.I.P gentleman genius groundbreaker inspiration blessed to have worked with you. Sad news."

The Roots drummer Questlove tweeted: "jesus, 30 years ago on April Fools Marvin was taken away & i didn't believe it...now this horrible news. #RIPFrankieKnuckles."

DJ and founder of Bestival Rob Da Bank wrote: "so sad to hear that Frankie Knuckles has died.. amazing DJ and pioneer."

"Frankie Knuckles RIP never forget seeing him in Tokyo playing this at Yellow," said 6Music DJ Giles Peterson, linking to Knuckles' classic track Your Love.

Former Joy Division and New Order bassist Peter Hook tweeted: "The world is a sadder place today, they will be dancing in heaven though. RIP Frankie Knuckles, the Hacienda will miss you. Hooky."

Often dubbed the 'godfather of house' Knuckles created the classic tracks 'Your Love', 'Tears' and 'The Whistle Song'. He went on to produce for a number of stars including the late Luther Vandross. 

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