US rapper Coolio, best known for the 90s hit Gangsta's Paradise, has died at the age of 59.

As tributes to the star pour in, we've taken a look back at his visits to Glasgow and an unlikely friendship that gave him a strong connection to the city.

In April of 2017, the Glasgow Times reported that Coolio had plans to head straight to Cardonald to visit politician Tommy Sheridan when he arrived to perform a show at the Hydro later that year.

The duo became pals while appearing on Celebrity Big Brother together in 2009 and, although neither was crowned winner, remained in touch for years to come.

Glasgow Times: Pictured: Rapper Coolio has died aged 59Pictured: Rapper Coolio has died aged 59 (Image: newsquest)

Coolio said: “I have some people in Scotland I consider like my family.

"Tommy Sheridan is my good friend.

“We still keep in contact.

"I will probably go to his house for dinner when I come to Scotland like I did last time.

“I met his family and he has a lovely family.

"Hopefully we will get a chance to hang out, I would like to introduce him to some of my friends.

“Tommy is good people.

"I like his conviction. He stands up for what he believes in and I like that.”

In the same conversation, Coolio shared his love for the country of Scotland saying: “I have three kilts.

"I own three kilts of my own that I wear often.

"You guys are very proud people with a long history and culture. I respect Scots.”

Making good on his statement, the rapper donned one of his three kilts as he took to the Glasgow stage in September 2017 as part of the I Love the 90s Tour.

Glasgow Times:

He told fans "Hey y'all you know I gotta represent" before going on to perform a selection of his greatest hits

Earlier that day, Coolio had managed to meet up with Tommy Sheridan at Parkhead to take in a Celtic match sending crowds wild as they questioned what his connection was to the club.

One Twitter user managed to capture the moment in a photograph which he later posted with the caption: “This is THEE single most bizarre thing I have ever seen. Coolio. Is at Celtic Park. With Tommy Sheridan. Tommy Sheridan. Why? For what reason? How do they know each other? How did this come about? I need a lie down."

Glasgow Times:

The rapper made the most of his visit by carrying out the Paradise Windfall Draw, much to the delight of spectators.

Coolio, whose legal name was Artis Leon Ivey Jr, died yesterday at the Los Angeles home of a friend.

His management today said that he “touched the world” and that his talent will be “missed profoundly”.