Former guitarist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, Ed King, has died. King was part of the southern rock band, best known for its anthems “Sweet Home Alabama, which he co-wrote, and “Free Bird. “ King was a member from 1972 through 1975 and again from 1987 through 1996, the Tennessean reported. The announcement of his death was posted on his Facebook page. app-facebook
It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Ed King who died at his home in Nashville, Tennessee on August 22nd, 2018.
We thank his many friends and fans for their love and support of Ed during his life and career.
According to the announcement, King died at his Tennessee home on Wednesday. King wasn’t only known for Lynyrd Skynyrd, he also was a founding member of Strawberry Alarm Clock. Lynyrd Skynyrd, according to the band’s official biography, was started about 41 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida. It stopped for a decade after a plane crash killed three members of the band in 1977. The band continues to tour with original member Gary Rossington. It has more than 60 albums and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. Funeral arrangements have not been released. King was 68 years old, the Tennessean reported.
Enjoyed his music, lyrics, and vocals. He was another one that was so young when his bands got big in the mid/late ‘60s. For a Lynerd alum, 68 is a long life span.
I heard about this earlier when my girlfriend text me the news. He was definitely a talented guitarist. No one could quite pull off the Sweet Home Alabama solo like Ed could.
RIP Ed....Sad day....
I guess Gary Rossington is the only original Skynyrd member left now. Artimus Pyle is still alive too, if you want to count members that played in the band with Ronnie Van Zant as an original member....