Freddie Salem, the legendary guitarist best known for his time with the Southern rock band Outlaws, passed away at the age of 70 on September 23, 2024, due to complications from cancer.
The news was confirmed in a heartfelt post shared by the band on their official Facebook page, saying, “It’s with a heavy heart that we have to tell Outlaws fans about the passing of our former guitarist Freddie Salem. Freddie passed from complications due to cancer and will be remembered for his outgoing personality and passion for music. He was an electric performer and beloved musician and he will be missed.”
Salem’s journey with the Outlaws began in 1977 when he joined the group at 23. He became a vital band member, contributing to five albums, including their 1978 release “Bring It Back Alive” and their studio album “Playin’ to Win” later that year. Salem’s unique guitar sound helped define the band’s Southern rock identity, with tracks like “Green Grass and High Tides” becoming fan favorites.
Monte Yoho, Freddie Salem’s bandmate and close friend, shared a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the strong bond they built during their years on the road. He remembered Salem not just for his talent but also for his character, with his sense of humor as a defining trait that left a lasting impression.
Born in Akron, Ohio, Salem’s introduction to music began at a young age, partly thanks to his father’s jukebox in the bar he owned. His love for rock and roll was ignited early, and by the age of 16 Salem was already playing guitar professionally. His musical career flourished over the decades, with his time in the Outlaws marking a significant chapter in his life. Reflecting on his tenure with the band, Salem once said, “It was just one of those things… Musically and career-wise, I wanted a little more.”
Salem pursued other musical endeavors after parting ways with the Outlaws in 1982. He formed his solo project, Freddie Salem & the Wildcats, and released the “Cat Dance” album in 1982. In the early 1990s, Salem opened several live music venues in his hometown of Akron. His passion for music continued throughout his life, and in 2016, he was inducted into the RockGodz Hall of Fame.
The Outlaws were a significant part of the Southern rock scene, and Salem played a crucial role in elevating the band’s success. While he was with them, the group sold over 10 million albums and earned platinum and gold records. They toured extensively, frequently opening for legendary acts such as the Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead. Despite the tough demands of touring, Salem looked back on his time with the band positively, remembering it as one of the best periods, with the band achieving great success and headlining major arenas worldwide.