Ed King, Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist, who wrote opening riff to Sweet Home Alabama, dies aged 68

Ed King, the legendary musician who played electric guitar and bass guitar for Lynyrd Skynyrd and Strawberry Alarm Clock, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 68. King had been battling cancer, and his family announced his death on Thursday

An influential figure in the guitar community, the Nashville resident was responsible for co-writing 'Sweet Home Alabama', 'Saturday Night Special,' 'Poison Whiskey, 'Mr. Banker,' and many other hits.

#BREAKING: Legendary guitarist Ed King passed away yesterday at the age of 68. King was a member of Lynyrd Skynyrd, responsible for co-writing "Sweet Home Alabama," & a member of Strawberry Alarm Clock. King lived in Nashville & was a influential figure in the guitar community.

— Jesse Knutson (@JesseKnutsonNC5) August 23, 2018

King was in the Lynyrd Skynyrd from 1972 until 1975, and again from 1987 until 1996. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 along with some of his Lynyrd Skynyrd bandmates.

An icon to guitar players around the world, King continued playing throughout his life.