Sad news with the passing of Jeff Cook. He co-founded Alabama, then known as Wild Country in 1969, with cousins Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry. He was 73.

The guitarist, fiddler and keyboardist notched 36 number one hits throughout his time with the group. He battled Parkinson’s disease and shared his diagnosis in 2017, and stepped away performing less with the group, and stopped touring with them in 2018. Tributes poured in from Jason Aldean and Kenny Chesney, among others. Cook passed away with his family by his side on Monday. Jeff was also involved in a number of solo projects with Charlie Daniels and William Shatner and toured with his Allstar Goodtime Band.

So sad to hear of the passing of Jeff Cook. I spent a lot of my life listening to him play guitar, what an iconic sound he had. I got a chance to perform with him multiple times over the years and I will never forget it.

: Rick Diamond pic.twitter.com/7v4zqKpSjG

— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) November 8, 2022

Heartbreaking news … friend and brother Jeff Cook of @TheAlabamaBand has passed … goodbye Jeff .. rest easy many … the battles have ended … #RIPJeffCook

— The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) November 8, 2022

Sending out my deepest condolences to the family, friends and band mates of Jeff Cook from @TheAlabamaBand. Such a great guy an one heckuva bass fisherman. He will be truly missed.

— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) November 8, 2022

Heaven gained another guitar/fiddle player today. Mom and I were saddened to hear about the passing of @TheAlabamaBand‘s Jeff Cook after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. Prayers for his family and many fans. – CD, Jr. & Hazel Daniels pic.twitter.com/BeHgso1858

— Charlie Daniels (@CharlieDaniels) November 8, 2022