According to various reports, Vernon Taylor, a hugely influential figure in the country music and rockabilly scene, has died aged 88, following a lengthy battle with dementia.

Vernon reportedly passed away just a day after his brother, Luther, died, also from dementia. A number of tributes have flooded in honouring the ‘Mystery Train’ hitmaker's legacy.

The Fabulous Hubcaps, for instance, have shared via Facebook, “The Fabulous Hubcaps are saddened to learn of the passing of Sun Record Recording Artist, Vernon Taylor (Walton Alderton). On July 17, 2005, The Hubcaps had the honor of being inducted into The Southern Legends Entertainment and Performing Arts Hall of Fame. It was Vernon who inducted us, and from that day on, a long and lasting friendship ensued between Vernon, his beautiful wife, Brenda, and The Fabulous Hubcaps”.

They expressed their gratitude, “Thank you, Vernon....for this great honor....for joining us on stage, and for always being there for us! Brenda...we love you; you're in our thoughts and prayers! Vernon....we're sure they welcomed you into Rock and Roll Heaven with open arms and big wide hugs! Rock on friend.....Rock on..”

Vernon entered the music industry at a young age, starting his own band, The Nighthawks, at the age of just 15. Over the next few years, the group would perform a number of concerts, including being part of an hour-long show out of Washington, DC.

After being spotted on American Band Stand, Vernon signed to Sun Records. He released four albums with the label, including Mystery Train / Sweet and Easy Love, and was credited as being a key part of the early formation of the rockabilly genre.

Vernon stepped away from music in 1959 to devote his attention to his family. A number of Vernon's beloved rockabilly classics will be remembered fondly by his fans and students of country music, such as ‘I've Got the Blues’, ‘Your Lovin’ Man’, ‘Mystery Train’ and countless others. Vernon Taylor is survived by his wife, Brenda.