Legendary American rocker Freddie Salem has died at the age of 70.
The Outlaws guitarist died of “complications from cancer,” his former band confirmed.
“This morning the heavens opened for the arrival of a legend. Rock on high, Freddie Salem. Until we meet again,” a statement on his Facebook page read Monday.
His former bandmates also paid tribute on social media.
Legendary American rocker Freddie Salem has died at the age of 70
“It is with a heavy heart that we must inform Outlaws fans of the passing of our former guitarist Freddie Salem,” the Outlaws said.
‘Freddie passed away from cancer and will be remembered for his outgoing personality and passion for music.
“He was a great artist and a beloved musician. We will miss him.”
Salem first appeared with the Outlaws on the 1978 album Playin’ to Win, a year after replacing original guitarist Henry Paul.
He remained with the band for the next four albums, writing several of their hits, including “White Horses”, “Long Gone”, “Devil’s Road” and “Don’t Stop”.
Salem left the band in 1983 after Arista Records shut down the band.
Salem was originally a drummer, but switched to guitar at the age of 15.
The artist, born in Akron, Ohio, was the only musician in his family, but he said he loved music because he often hung out by the jukebox in his father’s bar.
Salem toured with the Rolling Stones for a time and called the experience “incomparable.”
Salem died of complications from cancer, according to his former bandmates. Pictured: Salem with Eric Moore of The Godz
Salem first appeared with the Outlaws on the album Playin’ to Win in 1978. Pictured: Hughie Thomasson and Freddie Salem and The Outlaws perform as part of the Dr. Pepper Music Festival Series at Pier 84 on June 26, 1982.
He stayed on for the band’s next four albums and wrote several of their hits, including “White Horses,” “Long Gone,” “Devil’s Road” and “Don’t Stop.” Pictured: The Outlaws performing in Los Angeles, California, February 1980
“No other band in the world tours like the Stones,” he told blog Road to Jacksonville.
“It’s like a traveling circus. There’s always something to do. The Stones treated the Outlaws very well. The experience was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, to this day.
‘Although we had played with the Grateful Dead and other stadium shows, nothing came close to the Stones. Brilliant experience indeed.’
In addition to his time with the Outlaws, Salem recorded a solo album titled Cat Dance and was a successful session musician, recording with The Godz in the 1980s.
British bassist Tony Franklin was among those who led the tributes to the late musician.
“Sad to hear of Freddie Salem’s passing. A dear friend and musical compadre. I will miss our lively conversations. Godspeed brother,” he wrote on X.