Dr John dies: Six-time Grammy-winning singer dies aged 77 after suffering heart attack

Six-time Grammy-winning singer Dr John has died aged 77 after suffering a heart attack.

The New Orleans-born musician, real name was Malcolm John Rebennack, died on Thursday.

Debbie Harry and Ringo Starr were among famous industry names to pay tribute to the music legend after his death was announced.

Dr John, born in 1940, was known for music combining blues, pop, jazz, boogie woogie and rock and roll.

"Towards the break of day June 6, iconic music legend Malcolm John Rebennack, Jr, known as Dr John, passed away of a heart attack,” a statement on his Twitter read.

"The family thanks all whom shared his unique musical journey & requests privacy at this time. Memorial arrangements will be announced in due course."

His career started in the late 1950s when he worked as a session musician in New Orleans, before gaining recognition as a solo performer with the release of his album Gris-Gris in 1968.

Dr John's live shows were known for their carnival atmosphere and the singer would scatter glitter on the audience while wearing costumes of bright colours, feathers and plumes.

He was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2011 by the singer John Legend and was a six-time Grammy Award winner.

Following news of his death, figures from the music world paid tribute.

Debbie Harry, the lead singer of new wave band Blondie, shared a picture of the two together and wrote: "RIP Mac Rebennack, Dr John."

Former Beatles drummer Ringo Starr also paid tribute, tweeting a picture of himself with Dr John along with the message: "God bless Dr. John peace and love to all his family I love the doctor peace and love."

Music critic Ted Gioia said Dr John "leaves a hole in our musical culture that can't be filled".

He tweeted: "We have lost Dr John, one of the greatest exponents of the New Orleans piano tradition. He kept the flame alive over long decades, and leaves a hole in our musical culture that can't be filled."

Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said: "Dr John was a true Louisiana legend. He showed the world Louisiana's rich musical heritage, and his passion for music has left a mark on the industry unlike any other.

"@FirstLadyOfLA and I send our condolences to Dr. John's family during this difficult time."