Famous rocker Freddie Salem has died. He was 70.
Salem died of cancer complications, his former band, Outlaws, confirmed on Facebook Monday.
“It’s with a heavy heart that we have to tell Outlaws fans about the passing of our former guitarist Freddie Salem,” the statement began.
“Freddie passed from complications due to cancer and will be remembered for his outgoing personality and passion for music. He first appeared with the Outlaws on the album Playin’ to Win and then remained in the band for the following 4 albums.”
“He was an electric performer and beloved musician and he will be missed,” the band concluded their tribute.
Salem’s death was also announced on the Facebook page of his current project, Freddie Salem & Lonewolf.
“This morning, the Heavens parted for the arrival of a legend. Rock on high, Freddie Salem. Until we meet again,” the message read.
Salem joined Outlaws in 1977, replacing original guitarist Henry Paul.
He appeared as a vocalist and guitarist on the rock band’s fourth studio album, “Playin’ to Win.”
Salem stayed with the group for their next four albums, 1979’s “In the Eye of the Storm,” 1980’s “Ghost Riders,” 1982’s “Los Hombres Malo” and 1986’s “Soldiers of Fortune.”
Outlaws songs that Salem helped write include “White Horses,” “Long Gone,” “Devil’s Road” and “Don’t Stop.”
Salem and his bandmates including Billy Jones and Hughie Thomasson memorably toured with The Rolling Stones on the Some Girls tour in 1978. Outlaws was the opening act alongside Peter Tosh.
“Billy [Jones] and Hughie wanted to take it to the next step musically and direction of the group on all fronts including the live performances,” Salem said in a 2013 interview with the webzine Road to Jacksonville, per Deadline.
“It all seemed to click upon my arrival,” he added.
Salem left the band in 1983 after they were dropped by their record label, Arista Records.
While still with Outlaws, Salem recorded a solo album, “Cat Dance.”
He later recorded two albums with The Godz in the 1980s.
Outlaws is still active with current members Paul, Jeff Aulich, Jimmy Dormire, Randy Threet, Dave Robbins and Mike Bailey.
