Erasmo Carlos, a popular Brazilian singer-songwriter, died Tuesday in Rio de Janeiro at the age of 81 after being admitted to a hospital in the morning.

The cause of his death was not disclosed, according to Brazilian news portal Poder360.

Earlier this month, Carlos was released from the hospital following complications from edematous syndrome, a condition where swelling is caused by excess fluid becoming trapped in the body's tissues.

Carlos' death came four days after he received a Latin Grammy Award for the best album in Portuguese.

Following his passing, his record company Som Livre paid tribute, writing on Instagram that "Brazilian popular music will forever have in Erasmo Carlos an immortal hero."

"Erasmo will remain current and relevant to music for all eternity. Our condolences to his fans, family, and friends," added the company.

Brazil's President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also paid tribute, offering his condolences to Carlos’ loved ones and fans.

On Twitter, Lula described Carlos as an "extremely talented singer and composer" and said he "will always be in our memories and on the soundtrack of our lives."

Born on June 5, 1941 in Rio de Janeiro, Carlos, who was affectionately known as Tremendao, went on to have a significant impact on Brazil's rock and roll scene, with many considering him a pioneer in the genre in the country.

In the 1950s, he formed a band with Tim Maia, his longtime friend, before later joining the music group Jovem Guarda or “Young Guard,” which drew inspiration from American rock and roll and the British music scene during the 1960s.

In Jovem Guarda, Carlos gained notoriety alongside artists Wanderléa and Roberto Carlos (no relation).

Over his career, Carlos recorded more than 600 songs, including famous ones such as “E Proibido Fumar” and “Festa de Arromba” and collaborated with a number of artists, including Brazil's Gilberto Gil.

Carlos' largely rock music style became known over time for fusing a number of musical genres such as rhythm and blues and bossa nova.

He leaves behind his wife and three children. (Anadolu Agency)

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