Buren Fowler, who played lead guitar with southern rockers Drivin' N Cryin,' has died at the age of 54. The cause of death was not announced.

The Atlanta band broke the news on their Facebook page (embedded above) as well as their website, where they also wrote that a memorial service will take place at the 40 Watt Club in Athens, Ga. on April 5. Online Athens adds that the funeral will be held on Thursday in Lawrenceville, Ga.

Fowler joined Drivin' N Cryin' shortly after the release of their 1988 major label debut, 'Whisper Tames the Lion.' He recorded three albums with them, leaving after 1993's 'Smoke,' which coincided with their departure from Island Records for Geffen. During his tenure, the band had critical acclaim and a major champion in R.E.M., for whom they opened up on the 'Green' tour. Fowler also was an extra musician for a couple of R.E.M.'s early tours and was, for a while, the guitar tech for Peter Buck.

Drivin' N Cryin''s most successful release was 1991's 'Fly Me Courageous,' which reached No. 90 on the Billboard 200 and had its title track become a hit at both Mainstream and Modern Rock stations. The band has also opened up for Neil Young and the Who.

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