Michael Ward has passed away at the age of 57.
The Wallflowers, his former band, shared a tribute to confirm his death.
In a Facebook post, they honored his important role in their history.
‘The Wallflowers bid farewell to the great and unique Michael Ward with love and gratitude,’ it started.
‘Michael’s role and talents will always be an important part of the band’s history.’
They added: ‘His musical contributions began before his time with The Wallflowers and continued long after his tenure with the band.
‘Listening to Thin Lizzy on a solemn day. Rest now Mike.
‘Sending love to his family and his two children.’
Ward was a member of the band from 1995 to 2001.
Ward was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In his twenties, he was an original member of the alternative rock band School of Fish which Capitol Records managed.
Throughout his career, he contributed to 50 studio album recordings including Gavin DeGraw’s Chariot which featured One Tree Hill theme song, I Don’t Wanna Be.
His work was acknowledged by Grammy awards, with five nominations.