Gone Too Soon, ‘Marshall Tucker Band’s’ Stuart Swanlund Dies In Sleep [VIDEO]

This morning we are mourning the sudden death of Marshall Tucker Band guitarist Stuart Swanlund. 

He was the longest standing member of the band, and before he died, was taking time off from touring to deal with undisclosed health issues.

Marshall Tucker's cross-over appeal in mainstream Pop and Country was first recognized in the '70's with hits such as "Can't You See", and "Heard It in a Love Song".

Swanlund joined the group in 1985, where the band drifted more towards country roots, and in 1987 "Hangin' Out in Smokey Places" gave Marshall Tucker their highest charting tune on the country charts, rising to #44.

In recent years, the group played southern rock and country festivals, sometimes with the Charlie Daniels Band.  Swanlund also played the Grand Ole Opry last year, a highlight of his extraordinary career.

Stuart Swanlund was only 54 when he passed on August 6.