The Recording Academy have hailed Leonard Cohen’s "extraordinary talent".
The organisation of music professionals, which hands out the prestigious Grammy Awards, have paid tribute to the legendary singer and poet, following his death at the age of 82.
Chief Executive Neil Portnow said in a statement on behalf of the Recording Academy: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Grammy Award winner and 2010 Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement recipient Leonard Cohen.
"During an influential career that spanned more than five decades, Leonard became one of the most revered pop poets and a musical touchstone for many songwriters.
"His extraordinary talent had a profound impact on countless singers and songwriters, as well as the wider culture.
"We have lost a cherished artist and our sincerest condolences go out to Leonard’s family, friends, and collaborators. He will be missed terribly."
Meanwhile, Montreal mayor Denis Coderre has said the city will lower its flag to half-mast to mourn the singer, who was born in Westmount, Quebec, in 1934.
He said: "We will pay tribute as we should to one of our greatest Montrealers."
Leonard – who never married but had children Adam and Lorca with former partner Suzanne Elrod – released his first album in 1967 and is regarded as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his era, alongside Bob Dylan.
As well as his own music, his work was also recorded by the likes of Judy Collins, James Taylor, Jeff Buckley and Willie Nelson.
In 1995, he retreated from the spotlight and became an ordained Buddhist monk, but returned to music with ‘Ten New Songs’, a collaboration with Sharon Robinson, in 2001.
Despite his advancing years, the ‘Bird on a Wire’ star continued to work hard in his 70s, performing an impressive 387 concerts between 2008 and 2013.
He then retreated from the spotlight again before returning just last month with his 14th and final studio album, ‘You Want It Darker’.
Leonard Cohen remembered by Recording Academy
