David Crosby will be remembered for his passion for life and “beautiful music”.

David Crosby, legendary singer-songwriter and founding member of the Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, has died aged 81, his representative has confirmed diversity on Thursday.

The cause of death of the rock ‘n’ roll pioneer has not yet been clarified.

Crosby began his music career in 1964 with the Byrds alongside Roger McGuinn and Gene Clark, and in 1968 formed Crosby, Stills & Nash, which won the Grammy for Best New Artist in 1969 following the group’s eponymous debut album.

The influential voice of 1960s and ’70s rock was twice inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – in 1991 as a member of the Byrds and in 1997 for Crosby, Stills & Nash. Crosby also dabbled in acting during his career, appearing in the 1990 films Hook, Thunderheart, and Backdraft.

Crosby, Stills & Nash was eventually expanded into Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young by award-winning singer-songwriter Neil Young. However there diversity reported, the “constant clash of egos” within the supergroup ultimately led to the band disbanding in the 1970s, although the four members “reformed sporadically” over the years.

Graham Nash, Crosby’s good friend and former bandmate, posted a tribute to the late musician on his Instagram account Thursday night, writing that his note was written “with a deep and deep sadness.”

“I know people tend to focus on how explosive our relationship was at times, but what David and I always cared about more than anything else was the sheer joy of the music we created together, the sound we discovered together and the deep friendship we shared over many long years,” Nash wrote.

“David was fearless in life and in music. He leaves a tremendous void in terms of sheer personality and talent in this world,” he continued. “He has expressed his thoughts, heart and passion through his beautiful music and leaves an incredible legacy. Those are the things that matter most.”

Public Relations Manager Danny Deraneywho had previously represented Crosby, also posted on Twitter commemorating Crosby’s career, along with a clip of a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young performance.

Brian WilsonThe Beach Boys co-founder also shared a photo of himself and Crosby on Twitter on Thursday, writing that he was “heartbroken” at the news of Crosby’s death.

“David was an incredible talent — such a great singer and songwriter,” Wilson wrote. “And a wonderful person. I just can’t find the words.”

singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridge also credited Crosby, who was the biological father of Etheridge’s two children, Bailey and Beckett Cypher, by artificial insemination.

“He gave me the family.” wrote Etheridge. “I will forever be grateful to him, Django and Jan. His music and legacy will inspire many generations to come. A real treasure.”

Crosby was married to his wife Jan Dance for almost 36 years and tied the knot in 1987. The two had their youngest son, Django, in 1995. Crosby is also survived by his elder son, James Raymond, and two daughters, Erika and Donovan Crosby.