Keith Emerson was a British musician and composer, best known as the keyboardist for the progressive rock band Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP). Born on November 2, 1944, he was renowned for his virtuosic playing style and innovative use of synthesizers, which helped define the sound of 1970s rock music. Emerson's career spanned several decades, during which he collaborated with various artists and released solo albums. He was influential in the development of rock music, blending classical influences with modern sounds. Emerson passed away on March 10, 2016, leaving behind a legacy as one of the genre's pioneering figures.