US rocker Freddie Salem dies from complications due to cancer

American rock star Freddie Salem has died aged 70 from 'complications due to cancer', his former band confirmed.

The Outlaws guitarist's death was announced on his Facebook page on Monday. It read: "This morning, the heavens parted for the arrival of a legend. Rock on high, Freddie Salem. Until we meet again." His former band members also paid tribute to the star on their social media page.

"It's with a heavy heart that we have to tell Outlaws fans about the passing of our former guitarist Freddie Salem," they wrote. "It’s with a heavy heart that we have to tell Outlaws fans about the passing of our former guitarist Freddie Salem. 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."

Fans paid tribute to the star, with one user writing: "He was one in a million and a dear friend that I will miss. More than anything I will miss just sitting down with you over a fish sandwich and laughing and chatting about life. You were a blessing to this world and to me, Rock on in the stars until we met again."

Another posted: "Goodbye Freddie. We had us some fun back in the day," while one user added: "RIP Freddie! The Guitar gods have another great musician in the band! Rest easy, my friend!" One posted: "A true gentleman. I'll always cherish the conversations. R.I.P. my friend."

Original member Henry Paul was replaced by Freddie for vocals and guitar and drummer David Dix returned after the release of Sundown in 1977 to play alongside Monte Yoho. He made his debut on the band's 1978 live double album Bring It Back Alive. One track he wrote, I Hope You Don't Mind, featured on the album. The album made the Top 30 on the Billboard 200 and went gold.

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