Tom Morello and Michael Stipe pay tribute to L7 bassist Jennifer Finch

Tom Morello and Michael Stipe have paid heartfelt tributes to late L7 bassist, Jennifer Finch.

Over the weekend, a family representative announced that the musician had died following a battle with an aggressive brain cancer. She was 59.

"Jennifer's impact on the world of music was seismic; her impact on our lives, even more so," they wrote. "We appreciate everyone's interest and concern, thank you for all the kind messages. We appreciate some space to heal privately during this difficult time."

A short time later, Finch's L7 bandmates - Suzi Gardner, Donita Sparks, and Dee Plakas - issued a joint statement too.

"With a very heavy heart we announce that our beloved bandmate, friend, and fellow troublemaker Jennifer Finch has passed away today," they added. "She had a long courageous fight with brain cancer and was loved by many wonderful friends, musical peers and fans worldwide. We love you, Jennifer."

Following the sad news, Rage Against the Machine guitarist Morello called Finch a "powerful artist and gracious friend".

"God bless her. An important fixture of the LA scene, a super cool person, a true artist with a kind and welcoming heart. I loved, respected and admired her greatly. She will be missed," he declared.

Meanwhile, R.E.M. musician Stipe wrote, "Bless her," and a rep for Garbage commented, "Godspeed beautiful Jennifer. Thank you."

And Violet Grohl, whose father Dave Grohl dated Finch in the '90s, described the artist as a "legend".

"This is so devastating, she was such a force. Made so many feel so seen. Rest in peace legend," the singer-songwriter reflected.

Finch played with grunge band L7 from 1986 until 1996. She also performed with OtherStarPeople and The Shocker until L7 reunited in 2014.