Sad news from the rock world to report. Former Drivin' N Cryin' guitarist Buren Fowler has passed away at the age of 54.

James Van Buren Fowler was a heavy hitter in the Georgian rock scene, rising to prominence as a touring guitarist for R.E.M. from 1986 - 1987. However, Fowler is best known for his five-year stint with Drivin' N' Cryin' from 1988 - 1993.

Fowler was a member of Drivin' N' Cryin' when the act released its most popular and commercially successful album, 'Fly Me Courageous,' in 1991. Drivin' N' Cryin' had a Modern and Mainstream Rock hit with the album's title track, while landing on the Mainstream Rock chart with the singles 'Build a Fire' and 'The Innocent.'

Drivin' N' Cryin' posted a memorial of their former bandmate via the act's Facebook page:

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.

We'd like to send our condolences and best wishes to the family, friends and former bandmates of Buren Fowler. In memory of Fowler, listen to 'Fly Me Courageous' below.

Drivin' N' Cryin', 'Fly Me Courageous'

More From Rock 96.7