The Wallflowers’ guitarist Michael Ward has died at the age of 57, it has been confirmed.
The American musician’s death was confirmed by his heartbroken sister Tracy and by the band.
Tracy confirmed his death in a statement on Facebook on April 3, revealing he died from “complications from diabetes”.
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“Michael Ward has left this plane. It’s with tremendous sorrow that I let you know complications from diabetes took his life last night,” Tracy wrote in her post.
“Obviously, we are all in shock and overcome with grief. This is all I can handle writing right now.
“Please tell the people you love just how much they mean to you,” she finished.
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The band also shared a statement, writing: ”With love and gratitude the Wallflowers say farewell to the great and singular Michael Ward.”
“Michael’s role and talents will forever remain a crucial part of the band’s history. His contributions to music began before his time with the Wallflowers and continued long after his time with the band.”
They added: “Listening to Thin Lizzy on a sorrowful day. Rest now Mike. Much love to his family and his two children.”
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“Condolences, those guitar lines will live in the memories of many,” one fan wrote underneath the Facebook post.
Tracy added: “Thank you for sharing such kind words about my brother. He will be missed, but his contribution to the music world will live on. Sincerely, thank you.”
Ward was due to hit the stage and perform in Las Vegas yesterday.
“My great friends and I will be slingin’ the rock jams for all y’all. 18 and over, come party with us!” he wrote as he promoted the event on Instagram.
Ward joined the band in 1995 and stayed until 2001. The lead singer is Jakob Dylan, Bob Dylan’s son.
The group is known for hits including One Headlight, The Difference and Sleepwalker.
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