The music world joined together to pay tribute to acclaimed Scots singer-songwriter Michael Marra – the "Bard of Dundee" – who has died aged 60.

One of Dundee's cultural icons, Marra was famous for songs such as Hamish the Goalie and Beefhearts and Bones, both of which demonstrated his unique Dundonian take on life.

The fervent Dundee fan had been suffering from an illness for some time before he died on Tuesday.

Marra, whose niece is Labour MSP Jenny Marra, was raised in the Lochee area of Dundee. He is survived by his wife Peggy and children Alice and Matthew who, as part of the band Hazey Janes, toured Scotland with their father a few months ago. In a statement, his family said: "We are devastated by our sudden loss, but are comforted by the kind words of so many people who loved Michael, his music and his spirit.

"His life's work has told our family story, and the story of his beloved Dundee. Michael's songs are his legacy, given to Scotland."

Mike Scott, of The Waterboys, led the tributes on Twitter. Scott said: "Very sorry to hear about the death of the great Michael Marra, bard of Dundee. I'm proud to say I sang one of his songs."

Fairground Attraction star Eddie Reader said: "God bless Michael Marra, song-writing genius and wonderful, wonderful man. So kind to me, my heart is breaking."

The Scottish Poetry Library tweeted: "Very sad to hear Michael Marra has passed away.

"He was a friend and collaborator with Liz Lochhead."

Donald Shaw, artistic director of the Celtic Connections festival, said: "He was just one of these really warm, generous people as a human, as well as musically.