Jeff Cook, famous guitarist and founding member of the band “Alabama,” died at the age of 73 after a courageous, lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Cook passed away peacefully Nov. 7 at his beach home in Destin, Florida, with his close friends and family by his side. An obituary and lengthy tribute to Cook’s contributions to music were posted on band’s official Instagram page. It cites the numerous accolades Cook accumulated over his decades-long career, including becoming Gibson’s Guitarist of the Year, as well as a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Musicians Hall of Fame, and Fiddlers Hall of Fame.
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“Cook was a champion in all he attempted and he courageously faced his battle with a positive attitude,” the band wrote to its Instagram page. “Jeffrey Alan Cook was born in Fort Payne, Alabama on August 27, 1949. He began playing lead guitar and keyboards in bands at the age of 13.”
The tribute indicated that Cook secured a broadcast license only three days after his 14th birthday, and then moved on to work as a disc jockey at a local Fort Payne radio station. The progression of his career was fully documented in the post and educated fans that Cook later became the owner of several radio and TV stations. (RELATED: Legendary Director Jean-Luc Godard Dead At 91)
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Jeff Cook, co-founding member of legendary band Alabama and Country Music Hall of Fame member. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones during this time. pic.twitter.com/JIJJBitTLl
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) November 8, 2022
“Cook loved that radio combined two of his favorite things, music and electronics,” the band said.
The members went on to sing their late bandmate’s praises.
“Cook is credited for introducing the electric double neck guitar to country music. He was also an accomplished musician with the ability to play piano, guitar, fiddle, bass guitar, banjo, mandolin and anything else thrown in front of him,” they wrote.
Cook is survived by “the love of his life, Lisa Williams.”