Widespread Panic Guitarist Jimmy Herring Diagnosed with Cancer: Latest News

Widespread Panic , a well - known rock band , recently announced that their lead guitarist , Jimmy Herring , has been diagnosed with Stage 1 tonsil cancer . As a result , the band has decided to press pause on their tour , canceling their upcoming shows in Asheville , North Carolina . The concerts , which were scheduled for July 25 - 27 , have been canceled to allow Herring to begin treatment immediately and focus on making a full recovery.

Herring , 62 , has been a member of Widespread Panic since 2006 and has been an integral part of the band . He made his debut with the group at New York City 's Radio City Music Hall following the death of guitarist Mike Houser . Herring 's musical journey began nearly 40 years ago when he emerged onto the national music scene as a founding member of jazz fusion band Col . Bruce Hampton and The Aquarium Rescue Unit in the late 1980s . Since then , he has played with several other bands , including Frogwings , Jazz Is Dead , and The Other Ones.

According to the band , ticketholders for the Asheville concerts will receive automatic refunds , but it remains unclear if or when those shows will be rescheduled . Widespread Panic expressed gratitude for the support and blessings they have received during this challenging time , and they are hopeful for Jimmy 's full recovery as he begins his healing process.

In a statement released by Widespread Panic , they shared that they will have a clearer picture of their future concert schedule in the coming days . The band remains committed to supporting Jimmy and his family through this healing process and looks forward to the day when they can resume their performances . Despite the temporary setback , Widespread Panic is optimistic about the future and the possibility of rescheduling the canceled shows in the future.

Herring 's diagnosis has impacted not only the band but also their loyal fans who were eagerly anticipating the Asheville concerts . With the music industry rallying behind Jimmy Herring , there is hope for a successful treatment and recovery that will allow him to return to the stage and continue sharing his talents with audiences around the world . The outpouring of support and well wishes for Jimmy and his family demonstrates the close - knit community that surrounds Widespread Panic and the music industry as a whole.