Frankie Knuckles, 59, 'Godfather of House Music', Dies Due To ‘Complications Relating To Type II Diabetes’

The ‘Godfather of Chicago House music’, Frankie Knuckles has passed away, aged 59.
The Grammy-winning DJ's death is reportedly due to complications related to Type II Diabetes, having developed the disease during the mid-2000s, according to the Chicago Tribune.
His longtime business partner, Frederick Dunson confirmed his death to the newspaper on Monday, stating that he 'died unexpectedly this afternoon at home.'

As one of the leading figures in dance music, having worked with Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Diana Ross, Eternal and Toni Braxton, many have shared their sadness at Knuckles' passing.

Grammy-winning American house music DJ and producer, David Morales confirmed the news on Twitter: '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.'

Chicago-based DJ Bad Boy Bill tweeted: ‘RIP Frankie Knuckles An amazing talent; the true Godfather of House Music. House Music has an angel in heaven.’

Trance DJ, Markus Schulz wrote: ‘RIP Frankie Knuckles. One of the most beautiful human beings to have ever graced this earth. I'll miss that smile.’

BBC Radio ! DJ Gilles Peterson wrote, 'Frankie Knuckles RIP never forget seeing him in Tokyo', 

While former The Charlatans front-man Tim Burgess said, 'I am dancing to The Whistle Song and Reminiscing RIP Frankie Knuckles'.

Producer Duke Dumont tweeted: 'RIP Frankie Knuckles ..had the honour of working with you last year,,,, Eternally grateful for laying the blueprint, that is House.'

The DJ was still playing up to two days before his death in Chicago, at London's Ministry of Sound on 29 March.

Honoured: The then Illinois state senator, Barack Obama, helped to get the city of Chicago declared August 25th Frankie Knuckles Day

-----Mailonline