Los Angeles - Donald "Ean" Evans, the bassist of the US country rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd has died aged 48 after a long battle with cancer, according to a statement from the band. "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of longtime Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Ean Evans," the band announced on their website Wednesday. "Ean put up a valiant battle with an aggressive form of cancer and he will be sorely missed by family, friends and fans."
His death in Columbus, Mississippi, continued a terrible streak for the popular group whose Billy Powell died in January. Evans joined the legendary Southern rock band in 2001, following the death of longtime bassist Leon Wilkeson.
Best known for hits such as Free Bird and Sweet Home Alabama, the band's chartered plane crashed in 1977 killing six, including lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backing vocalist Cassie Gaines.
