The music world has been paying tribute to Chris Cornell who died on Wednesday night (17 May) aged 52.

The Soundgarden frontman was found dead in the bathroom of the MGM Grand Hotel in Detroit after performing to a sold-out concert.

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News of his sudden passing sent shockwaves through the music industry as stars such as Elton John, Jimmy Paige, Nile Rodgers, and Gavin Rossadale paid tribute to the grunge artist.

Describing him as a 'great singer' Elton John said on Twitter: "Shocked and saddened by the sudden death of @chriscornell "A great singer, songwriter and the loveliest man."

Kelly Jones of the Stereophonics' described his influence on him saying: "He is the reason I first let go & found my voice at 18. He paid me a compliment on my voice on a stage we shared years later, v sad."

Gavin Rossdale expressed his shock writing: "I AM SO SADDENED BY CHRIS CORNELL PASSING.@soundgarden TOTAL SHOCK.GREAT MAN.GREAT BAND.GREAT LOSS. LOVE TO EVERYONE IN HIS WORLD. XXX"

One Republic tweeted: "A friend of our team and us died last night. Thank u for your talent, time, music & kindness. U will be missed man." #RIPChrisCornell

Actor Val Kilmer recalled: "Dear Chris Cornell used to come to my parties n Hollywood n play quietly in th corner until all th woman were literally at his feet listenin "

Sheryl Crowe said he was "so talented. Too young" while Cher reacted to the news by posting a broken heart.

While the death of the rocker is being investigated as a possible suicide the Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office said Thursday it completed the preliminary autopsy on Cornell, but that "a full autopsy report has not yet been completed."

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