Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Gary Rossington passes away

American rock guitarist legend Gary Rossington passed away at age 71. The last surviving original member of the band Lynyrd Skynyrd, his death marks the end of an era.

He's played on all 14 Skynyrd studio albums, co-writing some of the band's most well-known songs including, 'Sweet Home Alabama.'

The band posted about the guitarist's death on Facebook, sharing their sympathy with Rossington's friends, family, and fans.

"It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today."

"Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does."

The band continued on to ask that Rossington's family and friends be kept in people's prayers and that their privacy be respected during their time of mourning.

Lynyrd Skynyrd was formed in 1964, although it was originally named Me, You and Him. In 1973, the Southern rock band released their debut album (Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd), which included the hit 'Freebird.'

Fans and friends alike reached out over social media, expressing their condolences. The American country artist Travis Tritt shared his own condolences over Twitter, expressing heartbreak for his friend and Rossington's family.

I just learned that my dear friend, Gary Rossington passed away today. I’m heartbroken! Gary was not only a friend, but a collaborator that wrote songs with me and played guitar with me in studio recordings and onstage so many times. My heart goes out to Dale and the girls. RIP🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/BuTEIdDaR2

— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) March 6, 2023

Like the members of Lynryd Skynyrd, Gary Rossington's legacy lives on in his music and his band. On Lynyrd Skynyrd's website, quotes from the passed members emphasise the importance of keeping the music going.

Gary himself is quoted saying that "We wanted to do the guys who aren’t with us any more proud, and keep the name proud, too."

Rossington had been playing shows up until February despite several health complications over the past few years, including heart problems. Right now, however, there has been no information about the cause of death released.