Former Drivin’ N Cryin’ Guitarist Has Passed Away

James Van Buren Fowler, guitarist for Drivin’ N Cryin’ between 1988 and 1993, died on Friday afternoon according to Access Atlanta. In addition to Buren’s work with DNC, he also toured with R.E.M. as a sideman and was Peter Buck’s guitar tech at one point. No word yet on the cause of death.

The current members of Drivin’ N Cryin’ issued a statement about Fowler’s passing:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our brother-in-arms Buren Fowler. Words alone cannot express the sense of loss that we all feel. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his dear wife Paula and his family. We love you Buren. Godspeed.

Buren was lead guitarist for Drivin N Cryin from 1988-1993.

A memorial service is being planned for April 5, 2014 at Athens, GA’s 40 Watt Club. Please stay tuned for more details.

Buren Fowler was 54.

Watch Buren in the video for DNC’s 1991 hit “Fly Me Courageous”:

[via Access Atlanta]