Gordon Lightfoot died at a Toronto hospital on Monday at the age of 84, his representative has confirmed.

The Canadian musician rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with hits including Early Morning Rain and The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

The cause of death has not been confirmed as of the time of writing, but fans have begun taking to social media with tributes to the late music icon.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a Twitter post: “We have lost one of our greatest singer-songwriters.

“Gordon Lightfoot captured our country’s spirit in his music – and in doing so, he helped shape Canada’s soundscape.

“May his music continue to inspire future generations, and may his legacy live on forever.

“To his family, friends, and many fans across the country and around the world: I’m keeping you in my thoughts at this difficult time.”

@CraigBaird tweeted: “Gordon Lightfoot has died at the age of 84. Calling him a Canadian icon or legend is an understatement.

“He was one of our greatest singer-songwriters. Born in Orillia, Ontario on Nov. 17, 1938, he had several #1 albums & songs. He won 16 Junos. RIP to a legend.”

@MDesbarres added: “Gordon Lightfoot left us today.. When Bob Dylan reveres you & turns to you when he needs to, you know you’re dealing with brilliance.

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“From Canada, Mr. Lightfoot became the Mark Twain of folk music. Trains, rivers, loneliness, romance. His songs were covered by just about everybody RIP.”

More to follow

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