Paul Kantner: Jefferson Airplane founder dies aged 74

Musician Paul Kantner has died at the age of 74, it has been confirmed.

The American guitarist and vocalist, who was one of the founding members of 1960s psychedelic rock band Jefferson Airplane, passed away after suffering a heart attack.

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that the star suffered multiple organ failure and septic shock after being hospitalised earlier this week.

Kantner was thought to have been in poor health after suffering a heart attack back in March last year.

Along with singer Marty Balin, Grace Slick and Jorma Kaukonen, Kantner is credited with founding the pioneering rock group in the mid-1960s.

They scored hits with songs including Somebody to Love and White Rabbit and went on to release seven albums – five of which went gold.

The Doors posted a statement on their Facebook page on Thursday night, which read:

“Our condolences go out to the friends, family and fans of Paul Kantner of Jefferson Airplane on the news of his passing.

“Music would not be the same without the sounds of The Doors and Jefferson Airplane, which both contributed so heavily to the signature sound of the 60s and 70s. They often shared the same bill.”