Freddie Salem, renowned guitarist of the Southern rock band Outlaws, died from cancer-related complications on September 23, 2024, at the age of 70.
The band confirmed Salem’s death on their official Facebook page, stating, “We regret to inform Outlaws fans about the death of our former guitarist Freddie Salem. Freddie lost his battle with cancer. His vibrant personality and love for music will be remembered. As an energetic performer and cherished musician, his absence will be profoundly felt.”
Salem’s association with the Outlaws started in 1977 when he joined the band at the age of 23. His significant contributions to five of the band’s albums, including the 1978 live album “Bring It Back Alive” and the studio album “Playin’ to Win” released the same year, were instrumental in defining the band’s Southern rock sound. Songs like “Green Grass and High Tides” became popular among fans largely due to Salem’s distinctive guitar work.
Bandmate and close friend Monte Yoho paid tribute to Salem, reminiscing about their strong friendship formed during their years spent touring. Yoho highlighted not only Salem’s musical talent but also his character, particularly his memorable sense of humor.
Salem was born in Akron, Ohio, and his early exposure to music was courtesy of the jukebox in his father’s bar. This ignited his passion for rock and roll, leading to him playing guitar professionally by the age of 16. His music career spanned several decades, with his time in the Outlaws forming a significant part of his life.
After leaving the Outlaws in 1982, in a change of pace, Salem remarked, “It was just one of those things… Musically and career-wise, I desired more.” He embarked on solo ventures, forming Freddie Salem & the Wildcats and releasing the “Cat Dance” album the same year. During the early 1990s, he opened several live music venues in Akron. His dedication to music persisted throughout his life, culminating in his induction into the RockGodz Hall of Fame in 2016.
During Salem’s tenure, the Outlaws were a prominent fixture in the Southern rock scene, selling over 10 million albums and earning platinum and gold records. They toured extensively, often opening for iconic bands like the Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead. Despite the rigorous demands of touring, Salem, reflecting on his time with the band, said, “Most memories of my tenure with the Outlaws were the best of times. We became a magnificent recording and live headling Band selling out major arenas and coliseums worldwide. It was an exciting time to build the visibility and success of the band. As far as regrets, None.”
