Dr. Hook singer Dennis Locorriere dies aged 76

Founding member of the seventies rock band Dr. Hook Dennis Locorriere has died at the age of 76.

Locorriere died on Saturday, following a "long and courageous battle with kidney disease" according to a statement on the band's website.

"Dennis faced his illness with remarkable strength, dignity, and resilience, throughout, and remained deeply cherished by all who knew him", stated his management.

"He will be remembered for his warmth, love, and the lasting impact he had on those around him".

Born in New Jersey, Locorriere founded Dr. Hook in 1969 with Ray Sawyer, Billy Francis, and George Cummings, serving as the band's bassist and singer.

After signing with Columbia, the country rock group collaborated with children's author Shel Silverstein, who wrote all but one song on the group's first two albums, Doctor Hook, in 1972, and Sloppy Seconds, in 1973.

Dr Hook had great success throughout the '70s. Hits such as 'Sylvia's Mother', 'The Cover of Rolling Stone', and 'Only Sixteen' earned them a national following. Their final top 10 hit, 'Sexy Eyes' was released in 1980.

Following the band's farewell tour in 1985, Locorriere retained the rights to the group's name and continued touring as Dr. Hook.

During a career spanning nearly six decades, Locorriere recorded more than 18 albums.