In a statement, the band said last night: "We are absolutely devastated to hear of Robert's death ... by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell while he was singing with Vinegar Joe. Palmer got ...

Robert Palmer, the well-tailored British rock ... Andy Taylor said he was "shattered" by Mr. Palmer's death. "He was just one of the greatest British acts and a really close friend," Andy Taylor ...

UB40, who had a number six hit with Palmer in 1990 with I'll Be Your Baby Tonight, were among other stars to pay tribute. "We are shocked and saddened by the news of Robert's sudden death," they said.