LOS ANGELES, Sept. 7 (UPI) -- The Black Crowes have lost guitarist Marc Ford on the eve of its U.S. tour and in the wake of keyboardist Eddie Hawrysch's departure.
Billboard magazine said the rock band's manager, Pete Angelus, confirmed Ford's departure from the band the day before the Crowes hit the road in Richmond, Va., adding the split was under less than amicable circumstances.
"I am not going to comment on the timing of this notification or the way Marc has elected to handle his personal and business affairs with the Black Crowes, however I will state as a matter of fact, that this is not the first time that Marc Ford has breached his agreement with the Black Crowes," Angelus wrote on his online announcement.
Ford previously left the "She Talks to Angels" band for eight years before returning in 2005. A publicist for the guitarist said his most recent departure was due to concerns over his ongoing battle with drug addiction and his overall health.
Billboard said the band has begun negotiations with several guitarists and will feature Paul Stacey on guitar during its fall tour to promote its now ironically-named new album, "The Lost Crowes."
