George Tickner, the original guitarist and co-founder of the iconic ’80s rock band Journey, has died. He was 76.

Journey’s lead guitarist and co-founding member Neal Schon shared the news about Tickner’s death.

“Journey Junkies, I have some very sad news. George Tickner, Journey’s original rhythm guitarist and songwriting contributor on their first three albums, has passed away. He was 76 years old,” Schon wrote on Facebook accompanied by a black-and-white photo of the band.

“Godspeed, George. thank you for the music. We will be paying tribute to you on this page indefinitely. Our condolences to his family and friends, and to all past and present band members. So heartbreaking.. I think we need to do a group hug, JJ’s,” Schon concluded.

Born on September 8, 1946, Tickner was discovered by the late Journey manager Herbie Herbert while still in Frumious Bandersnatch.

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