Last night, the sad news of the passing of Alex Chilton flooded the internet via various memorial tweets and blog tributes. Chilton passed away at the age of 59 at a New Orleans hospital, reportedly of a heart attack. The musician is best known for his lead role in Big Star, who was supposed to play a show this Saturday at SXSW. While they might not have received mainstream recognition, the band’s power pop effect can be found on records from R.E.M., Beck and most obviously, The Replacements, whose song ‘Alex Chilton’ praised the singer and his music.

I first encountered Chilton as a young kid when I became obsessed with ‘The Letter’ by his band The Box Tops. I would listen to it on repeat until I actually had to replace the compilation tape it was on.

And I am not the only one who seems to be affected his death, with the outpouring of love and appreciation that was tweeted, posted, blogged and uploaded in the past 24 hours. Chilton also received an unlikely memorial on the floor of the House of Representatives today courtesy of Rep. Steve Cohen (D) of Tennessee, who was a fan of Chilton’s work since the Box Tops.

Who knows if this weekend’s performance could have opened Big Star to a whole new audience and propelled the small time, yet inspiring band to a new level. Sadly, we will never know. Chilton was survived by his wife, Laura and son, Timothy.