Singer and musician Spencer Davis, the founder of The Spencer Davis Group, died of pneumonia, his agent said.

The star, who starred in songs such as “Keep on Running” and “Gimme Sam Lovin” in the 1960s, died in hospital at the age of 81.

As fans paid tribute on social media, his agent Bob Burke, who has been around for more than 30 years, said in a statement sent to Sky News: “He was a very good friend.

“He was a very moral, very talented, intelligent, very intelligent, generous man. He is survived by his long time, domestic partner, June and three adult children.

“He will be missed.”

Among those paying tribute on social media was co-musician Badley Drain Boy, who tweeted: “Sad news. Spencer Davis. Legend.”

Radio Caroline presenter Suzy Wilde also tweeted: “I’m so sorry to hear Spencer Davis’s side, he was such a nice man, generous and kind, warm and funny and he will be so missed. RIP dear Spencer.”

And actor Philip Martin Brown tweeted: “#RIP Spencer Davis. This happy memory of North Soul has come down to this hammer dance.”

Born in Wales, Davis formed his team in 19 Bir in Birmingham with keyboard and guitarist Steve Winwood, his brother Muff Winwood on the bus and Pete York on the drums.

The BBC reported that the group was originally known as The Rhythm and Blues Quartet, but their names were changed only when Muff highlighted that Davis preferred to take media interviews.

According to the official charts company, the band topped the UK singles chart twice, their breakout hit Cop On Running and Somewhere Help Me, and topped the top 40 singles and three top 10 albums.

KIP ON RUNNING – A cover cover of the UK charts led by West Indian performer Jackie Edwards on 19 Indian66, the single from the Double A-Side Beatles We sent a congratulatory telegram to Davis overcoming Week It Workout / Day Tripper in the first place.

Gimm is famous for the soundtracks of Summer Lovin ‘The Blues Brothers and Notting Hill movies.