The pioneer of heavy metal passed away on Wednesday morning (03.

"It is with immense sadness and almost unbearably heavy hearts that we have to let you all know that Nicky - a man larger than life in body and spirit - has sadly passed away this morning," read a statement on the seasoned rocker's website.

A man who had lived 1,000 lifetimes in one decided he needed a break. Rest well, dear friend. We will all miss you. x "

Nicky, who is survived by his sons Nick Jr. and Timmy, co-founded Hackensack in the early 1970s before joining Tiger and making history by taking over as Samson's lead singer in 1981 when Bruce Dickinson left to join Iron Maiden.

He left the band later in the decade but rejoined in the 1990s.