TRIBUTES and heartfelt messages have been shared following the news that EMF keyboardist Derran Brownson has passed away.

The Forest of Dean band, known best for global 1990s chart-topper Unbelievable, announced that the 55-year-old had died on Thursday (August 13), following a brain tumour diagnosis.

Many took to social media to express their sadness, including Cinderford Town Council, who had welcomed Derran with EMF during Cindyfest in 2025.

A Cinderford Town Council spokesperson said: “Cinderford Town Council was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Derran “Derry” Brownson.

“Derry was last here in Cinderford at Cindyfest in 2025 with EMF, and we feel very privileged to have welcomed him and shared in the music and memories he helped create.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to Derry’s family, friends, fellow bandmates and all those who knew and loved him.

“EMF music and the memories he created will live on, and we are grateful that Cinderford was able to be part of his story. Thank you, Derry. You will be remembered by us all.”

EMF posted on Friday (August 14): “Late last night, we started to hear the news that we have lost our Brother In Arms Derran Brownson.

“We are devastated, the only solace we can find is that we are eternally grateful Derry was able to join us on stage a couple times just a few short months back.

“Nothing will ever be the same again without our band mate and friend, fly high brother Derry.”

A fan of the band wrote: “You couldn’t take the Cinderford out of this boy. Anywhere in the world, even amongst the craziness of the huge success he achieved with EMF, he was just the straightforward fun loving geezer, always.

“Japan, USA , he always led on befriending and amusing the locals, creating his own community for the benefit of us all. A true Diamond, a light that never fades.”