Towards the end of last month, sad news began to filter through that just weeks before his 40th Birthday, Simon Clewlow had passed away following a short illness.

Last week the country music community in the U.K. came together to pay tribute to the singer-songwriter who had been such a figurehead of the scene. Clewlow, who performed under the name Simon Clulo, was a born entertainer and well loved personality within country music. He could often be seen performing at festivals around the U.K. and in local venues in the North West. His song ‘Devil on my Shoulder’ went to number one in the U.K. country iTunes chart shortly after he passed.

Amongst those paying tribute to Simon was fellow U.K. Country artist Emilia Quinn who talked about his gentle, reassuring nature. “I was anxious before my first gig back and then you walked in and I was immediately at ease,” Quinn began as she recalled the last time they shared a stage. “During soundcheck you started singing Broken Halos and I wished I could just sit in the audience instead of play and just listen to you for the whole evening… I came away feeling in awe of the talent I had just witnessed but never in an insecure way. I felt like I belonged and I had people who understood and felt the same way towards music as I did. You had a talent for making people feel comfortable, alongside your incredible songwriting and musical skills… We will all cherish your songs and your legacy of kindness and love.”

Meanwhile, Charlotte Elizabeth, artist manager, co-owner of Arc Radio and songwriter said, “You were a true friend, a gentleman and that voice!” The pair teamed up together a few years ago as Charlotte released a collection of songs she had written, performed by a number of her friends within the U.K. scene, one of which was Simon who sang ‘Vintage Photo Frame’. She added, “We love your music and will keep it alive.”

Simon was one of the best vocalists in the U.K. scene, with a gritty tone to his powerful voice, he was unique and distinct and delivered his lyrics with heart and soul. He will be sorely missed by everyone involved in country music in the U.K.