Former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King dies at age 68

The Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist, Ed King whom by joining the band in 1972 gave the band its iconic three-guitar sound, died. He was well known for co-writing “Sweet Home Alabama” (he is the one counting off “1, 2, 3” in the song’s intro). The guitarist had been battling lung cancer and recently was hospitalized, unfortunately he didn’t make it. He was 68.

I’ve just found out about Ed’s passing and I’m shocked and saddened. 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 & Roll Heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sharon and his family. -Gary Rossington

— Lynyrd Skynyrd (@Skynyrd) 23 Αυγούστου 2018