Neal Casal, a former guitarist for The Cardinals who played with Willie Nelson, dies at 50

Neal Casal, a former guitarist for The Cardinals who played with the likes of Willie Nelson, Chris Robinson and Ryan Adams, has died at the age of 50.

"It’s with great sadness that we tell you our brother Neal Casal has passed away," read a statement on his official Facebook page Tuesday. "Rest easy Neal, we love you."

The statement continued: "As so many of you know, Neal was a gentle, introspective, deeply soulful human being who lived his life through artistry and kindness. His family, friends and fans will always remember him for the light that he brought to the world."

His cause of death is unknown.

Casal was best known as a member of The Cardinals rock band, which backed Adams from 2005 to 2009. In response to the news, Adams wrote, "My heart is broken."

"Oh man… It’s too much," he continued on Instagram. "What an honor to have known you, true believer. I love you, always. Go easy, brother. Go easy. Through thick and thin your heart was a lighthouse of kindness. Your eyes a mirror to a better world- your soul bled into ever note. I don’t know how to even feel right now. Grateful for your time. But immense loss."

Casal was also a guitarist in the Southern rock band Blackfoot from 1988-1993, and played in various other groups, including Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Hard Working Americans and The Skiffle Players.

He played last weekend at the Lockn' Music Festival in Arrington, Virginia, with his most recent band, Circles Around the Sun.

The festival shared images Tuesday of Casal from the weekend, writing, "Thank You, Neal. May Your Circles Around The Sun Glow Forever. Love, Your LOCKN’ Family."

Casal released 12 albums as a solo artist, including 2011's "Sweeten the Distance."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Neal Casal, the former The Cardinals guitarist, dies at 50