The Outlaws’ Freddie Salem passes away age 70

Freddie Salem, former guitarist for The Outlaws, has passed away at the age of 70, the band confirmed on social media. The Florida-based southern rock band announced that Salem died due to complications from cancer, fondly remembering him for his vibrant personality and deep passion for music. Salem joined The Outlaws in 1977, replacing Henry Paul, and made his first appearance on the band’s 1978 album Playin’ To Win. He continued with the group for four more albums, including the gold-certified Bring It Back Alive, which featured his song “I Hope You Don’t Mind” and a 20-minute version of their iconic track “Green Grass and High Tides.”

During his time with The Outlaws, Salem helped shape their hard-driving southern rock sound, contributing to albums such as In the Eye of the Storm, Ghost Riders, and Los Hombres Malo. He left the band in 1983 after they were dropped by Arista Records, but his contributions to the band’s legacy remained strong. Freddie Salem was also known for his solo work, recording the album Cat Dance under the name Freddie Salem and The Wild Cats. In addition to his solo career, he enjoyed success as a session guitarist and producer, continuing to leave a mark on the music industry.

Salem’s current project, Freddie Salem & Lonewolf, also paid tribute to him, posting on their Facebook page: “This morning, the Heavens parted for the arrival of a legend. Rock on high, Freddie Salem. Until we meet again.” The Outlaws, formed in Tampa in 1967, have supported legendary bands such as The Rolling Stones and The Who, and Salem’s electrifying performances were a key part of their success during his tenure.

Music by Yevhen Onoychenko from Pixabay