Original guitarist of The Animals dies aged 77

British musician Hilton Valentine, who was the guitarist of the English rhythm and blues and rock band The Animals, has died at the age of 77, ABKCO Music & Records informed.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to Hilton Valentine's family and friends on his passing this morning, at the age of 77. A founding member and original guitarist of The Animals, Valentine was a pioneering guitar player influencing the sound of rock and roll for decades to come,” the aforesaid company stated on Twitter.