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Former Lynyrd Skynyrd Guitarist Ed King Dead at 68

Ed King of Lynyrd Skynyrd Dead at 68

Former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitar player Ed King is dead at 68, TMZ reports. The “Sweet Home Alabama” co-writer and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member died at his Nashville home on Wednesday, according to the gossip site. His death was confirmed on his Facebook page on Thursday morning. “We thank his many friends and fans for their love and support of Ed during his life and career,” the Facebook update read.

King spent two separate stints as a Skynyrd member, the first from 1972 to 1975 and the second from 1987 to 1996.

In addition to Skynyrd, King also co-founded the ’60s psychedelic Strawberry Alarm Clock in Los Angeles.

“I’ve just found out about Ed’s passing and I’m shocked and saddened,” Skynyrd guitarist Gary Rossington told Rolling Stone in a statement. “Ed was our brother, and a great songwriter and guitar player. I know he will be reunited with the rest of the boys in Rock and Roll Heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

The current incarnation of the band is on a North American summer farewell tour.