The music community is mourning legendary R&B songwriter, producer and performer Allen Toussaint, whose musical career over the past six decades contributed to establishing New Orleans as one of America's hotbed of musical creativity.

"He was an inspiring, prolific songwriter and performer whose unmistakable sound has forever defined our city's unique cultural heritage," said New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu in a statement a few hours after Toussaint's passing.

Toussaint, 77, collapsed of what was apparently a heart attack in Spain ...