DHAKA: Canadian singer, songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen has died aged 82.

The news was announced on his official Facebook page, but no details about the cause of death were given reports the BBC.

“It is with profound sorrow we report that legendary poet, songwriter and artist, Leonard Cohen has passed away,” the statement said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau led tributes to Cohen, who was known for hits including Hallelujah and Dance Me to the End of Love.

A memorial for Cohen will take place in Los Angeles at a later date, the Facebook announcement added.

The Montreal-born singer’s hits included Suzanne, Bird on the Wire and I am Your Man and he released his 14th album, You Want It Darker, just last month.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008.

For five years, from 1994 to 1999, he took a break from the music industry and lived at Mount Baldy Zen Center, east of Los Angeles.

Cohen was made a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2003.

Leonard Cohen was called “the high priest of pathos” and the “godfather of gloom”.

But the influence and appeal of this poet, novelist, songwriter and legendary ladies’ man has endured throughout his career.

Often prone to depression throughout his life, his often witty, charming and self-deprecating manner was reflected in his lyrics.

After his death was announced, singers, writers and politicians paid tribute to Cohen on social media.

BDST: 1412 HRS, NOV 11, 2016
NJ/BD