On September 23, 2024, Freddie Salem, a notable guitarist from the famous Southern rock band Outlaws, died at the age of 70, succumbing to cancer complications.
The band confirmed the sad news via an official post on their Facebook page, stating, “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 tenure with the Outlaws started in 1977 when he was 23 years old. He participated in the creation of five albums, including the 1978 live album “Bring It Back Alive” and the studio album “Playin’ to Win” later that year. Salem’s distinctive guitar sound significantly contributed to the band’s Southern rock character, with songs like “Green Grass and High Tides” achieving fan favorite status.
Monte Yoho, a former bandmate and close friend of Salem, offered a sincere tribute, focusing on the bond they established during their touring years. Yoho remembered Salem for his talent and his personality, with his humor leaving a profound impact.
Salem, a native of Akron, Ohio, was introduced to music at an early age, thanks in part to a jukebox in his father’s bar. His passion for rock and roll was sparked early, and by the time he was 16, Salem was playing guitar professionally. His career in music spanned several decades, with his time in the Outlaws being a significant part of his journey. Reflecting on his time with the band, Salem once remarked, “It was just one of those things… Musically and career-wise, I wanted a little more.”
After leaving the Outlaws in 1982, Salem embarked on other musical projects, including his solo venture, Freddie Salem & the Wildcats, and released the album “Cat Dance” that same year. In the early 1990s, he opened several live music venues in Akron. His dedication to music persisted, and in 2016, he was inducted into the RockGodz Hall of Fame.
During Salem’s tenure, the Outlaws became a significant force in the Southern rock genre. The band sold over 10 million albums, earning platinum and gold records. They toured extensively, often opening for legendary acts like the Rolling Stones and the Grateful Dead. Salem recalled his time with the band fondly, citing it as one of the best periods as they achieved tremendous success and headlined major arenas across the globe.
