Billy Powell, Lynyrd Skynyrd Keyboardist, Dies at 56

Lynyrd Skynyrd keyboardist Billy Powell dies Tuesday night at his home near Jacksonville, Florida. The cause of death has not been revealed. He was 56.

Powell’s death was confirmed on the band’s website. “A Great Loss – Beloved Pianist for the Lynyrd Skynryd Band, Billy Powell, passed away last night. We will post more info shortly. The family and band request your respect and understanding during this difficult time. Thank you,” reads a message posted on the site.

Powell joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1973 and stayed with the band until 1977 when he survived a plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines and other crew members. He suffered critical injuries, but was the only band member able to attend the funerals.

He joined the Christian rock band Vision in the 1980s. Powell reunited with Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1989 and remained with them until his death.

Skynryd has canceled several of their upcoming concerts and have directed fans to their website for updates. Guitarist Gary Rossington is now the only surviving original Lynyrd Skynyrd member.

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