Journey’s Co-Founding Guitarist Dies At 76

Steve Roseman/George Tickner

In San Francisco back in 1973, George Tickner, Neal Schon, and Ross Valory formed the band Journey. Decades later, 25 of the band’s songs have made it on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, and in 2005, the band received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Now, Schon is sharing that sad news that Tickner has died. He was 76 years old. A cause of death has yet to be released.

On Facebook, Schon wrote, “Journey Junkies, I have some very sad news. George Tickner, Journey’s original rhythm guitarist and songwriting contributor on their first three albums, has passed away. He was 76 years old.” He added, “Godspeed, George… thank you for the music. We will be paying tribute to you on this page indefinitely.” He concluded the post by writing, “Our condolences to his family and friends, and to all past and present band members. So heartbreaking. I think we need to do a group hug, JJ’s.”

Upon hearing the news of Tickner’s death, many Journey fans tweeted out tributes and condolences.

Despite Journey’s success, Tickner decided to leave the band to purse a completely different career field – medicine. He went to Stanford Medical School on a full scholarship and continued to play and write music as a hobby.

Learn more about Tickner’s life, career and death in the video below.

Rest in peace.