Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King dead at 68

Former Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Ed King, a Southern rock pioneer who co-wrote the hit "Sweet Home Alabama," has died, his official Facebook page account has announced. He was 68.

The post yesterday said he died at home on Wednesday. It did not mention the cause, but rock music bible Rolling Stone said he had been battling lung cancer.

"It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Ed King who died at his home in Nashville, Tennessee on August 22nd, 2018," the Facebook post read. "We thank his many friends and fans for their love and support of Ed during his life and career."