Foreigner and King Crimson co-founder Ian McDonald has passed away

Ian McDonald, a founding member of the band's King Crimson and Foreigner, has passed away at the age of 75.

A rep for McDonald confirmed the musician's death, adding that he "passed away peacefully on February 9, 2022, in his home in New York City, surrounded by his family."

His son Max reported on Facebook that the cause was cancer.

"He was incredibly brave, and never lost his kindness or his sense of humour even when the going was rough," Max wrote on the social media platform.

"My father was a brilliant, intuitive musician, a gentle soul, and a wonderful dad. He will live on forever through his beautiful music and the love of his fans."

McDonald was known for playing both saxophone and keyboards in King Crimson and co-writing their iconic 1969 debut, In the Court of the Crimson King.

He left King Crimson to form Foreigner, playing the guitar on classic songs like 'Cold As Ice,' 'Feels Like The First Time' and 'Double Vision' in the late '70s.

As a session musician, McDonald also played on records including the T. Rex album Electric Warrior, including the hit 'Get It On.'

Foreigner co-founder Al Greenwood was among those paying tribute, writing: "He was like a brother to me. A true musical genius, Ian's musicianship was an integral part of launching both King Crimson and Foreigner into legendary status.

"His contribution to Foreigner's success was immense. Ian was a dear friend, a kind and wonderful man, and I will miss him terribly."