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Kraftwerk’s Florian Schneider has died, aged 73

The electronic music pioneer co-founded Kraftwerk in 1970

Eoin Murray
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 - 16:48

Kraftwerk’s Florian Schneider has died.

News broke today (6th May) that the influential German musician and co-founder of legendary electronic group Kraftwerk had died, aged 73. Billboard confirmed rumours of the artist’s passing. The Guardian reports that Schneider died of cancer a week ago and that he had a private burial.

Schneider formed Kraftwerk with Ralf Hütter in 1970. Originally a flautist, Schneider, along with Hütter, began experimenting with and designing their own electronic instruments. The group went on to release several iconic albums, including ‘Autobahn’ (1974), ‘Trans-Europe Express’ (1977) and ‘Computer World’ (1981). Kraftwerk’s innovation and creativity has seen them credited as one of electronic music’s most influential and important acts. They were honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award in 2014.

While Kraftwerk remain active today, Schneider officially left the group in 2008.

This year, Kraftwerk were to embark on a massive 50th anniversary tour with their legendary 3D live show. However, the tour was postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Tributes have begun to come from across the electronic music landscape to the one-of-a-kind musician and innovator.