Rock legend and Outlaws guitarist Freddie Salem dies aged 70

Former The Outlaws guitarist Freddie Salem has died. He was 70.

The musician died of complications from cancer as per a social media statement posted by his former bandmates.

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

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The band remembered Salem "for his outgoing personality and passion for music".

"He was an electric performer and beloved musician and he will be missed."

Salem's death was announced in a post by his latest 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 Facebook post read.

Salem, who began performing as a teenager, was best known for playing guitar for American southern rock band The Outlaws.

The group was originally formed in 1967 in Tampa, Florida.

Salem joined a decade later in 1977, replacing founding member and guitarist Henry Paul.

He made his debut with the band on their album Bring It Back Alive in 1978.

In the same year he played on their fourth album Playin' to Win, which featured tracks like Take It Any Way You Want It and If Dreams Came True.

During his time with The Outlaws, Salem wrote several of their tracks such as Devil's Road, from their 1980 album Ghost Riders, and White Horses.

He also wrote the 1982 track Don't Stop.

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Alongside The Outlaws, Salem toured with the Rolling Stones in in 1978.

Salem stayed with the group for their next four albums before leaving the group in 1983.

He was replaced by guitarist Bob Jenkins.

In addition to his musical talents, Salem worked as a producer across his career, working with the likes of The Godz and The Zippers.

Fans paid tribute to Salem in the comments section of The Outlaws Facebook post.

"Freddie was a amazing entertainer. A great add to the Outlaws back in the day. He will be greatly missed," one person wrote.

"He left his mark on our music world and left so many great songs," another said.

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