Tributes to pioneering punk rock guitar hero
Keith Levene, the guitarist and musician who founded The Clash and Public Image Ltd, has died at 65.
He was best known for his work with Public Image Ltd, the band formed in 1978 by singer John Lydon after he first left the Sex Pistols.
Friends from the world of music have paid tribute to Levene on social media.
His friend, writer Adam Hammond, said: “It is with great sadness I report that my close friend and legendary Public Image Ltd guitarist Keith Levene has passed away. There is no doubt that Keith was one of the most innovative, audacious and influential guitarists of all time.”
Music writer John Robb said: “We are sad to hear of the death of the brilliant Keith Levene – one of the most extraordinary guitar players in music.”
Levene was born in Muswell Hill, London, and at the age of 15 he worked as a roadie for Yes on their Close To The Edge tour.
In 1976, aged 18, he became a founding member of The Clash alongside guitarist Mick Jones and bass guitarist Paul Simonon. Levene was responsible for helping to persuade Joe Strummer to leave The 101ers and join the punk band.
Although he left
The Clash before they began recording, Levene co-wrote What’s My Name, which featured on their groundbreaking, self-titled debut album.