Phil Everly dies aged 74

The singer died of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in California, his family confirms to the LA Times.

His wife Patti says, “We are absolutely heartbroken. He fought long and hard.”

The Everly Brothers had many hit tracks during their heyday in the early sixties, including Bye Bye Love, All I Have To Do Is Dream and Wake Up Little Susie.

But fans and critics alike credit them with a much wider influence on the music industry. The duo, with their iconic high harmonic singing voices, are said to have influenced the likes of the Beatles, Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys.

Their career was jam-packed, including a public break-up on stage during a concert in California in 1973.

The pair later re-united and were inducted into the rock ’n’ roll Hall of Fame in 1986.

Following news of his death tributes have poured in. Musician Brian May who writes on his website, “I feel like a huge piece of my youth just melted away.”

Singer Nancy Sinatra has tweeted: “Phil Everly is gone. Touring with Phil and Don was one of the thrills of my life. I love you Phillip - Godspeed.”