Emerson, Lake & Palmer and King Crimson bassist Greg Lake has died. The 69 year old that was widely regarded as one of the most gifted and innovative bass players in Rock died of cancer, according to a brief statement released by his manager.

In addition to the impressive body of work Lake leaves as a member of these two bands, he also co-wrote with Peter Sinfield and recorded a Christmas song in 1975 that remains one of the most requested holiday songs to tis day on Classic Rock stations. In an interview conducted not long before his passing Lake said of I Beleive In Father Christmas, 'It was about how Christmas had deteriorated and was in danger of becoming yet another victim of crass corporate financial exploitation.  As much as I love everyone having a good time, it's about more than 12 pints of lager and a crate of Bailey's. It's mor important to make some spiritual human contact, or visit someone lonely.'

Guardian.co.uk