Lynyrd Skynyrd's Billy Powell has died at the age of 56 from a suspected heart attack. He was at his home in Florida when he began having trouble breathing and called emergency services, but was dead by the time paramedics arrived.
Powell was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, but his family settled in Florida following the death of his father in 1960. He began learning piano whilst at school, and for a short period following his 1970 graduation studied music at community college.
At this time he joined Lynyrd Skynyrd as a roadie, but did not become the band's keyboardist until 1972. The group's popularity began to grow in the next couple of years, and it was in 1974 that their biggest hit, 'Sweet Home Alabama', was released.
Powell was of course involved in the 1977 Mississippi plane crash that killed his fellow band mates Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines and Cassie Gaines, as well as the band's road manager. Powell sustained severe facial lacerations - his nose was almost torn off by the impact - and damage to his right knee.
He rejoined the band in 1987 for a reunion, and remained an active member up until his death. Only one member of the original line up, Gary Rossington, now remains.
He is survived by his wife and four children.