(CNN) Neal Casal, a prolific guitarist who was a member of The Cardinals and played alongside Willie Nelson, Phil Lesh, and Chris Robinson throughout a busy solo career, has died.

He was 50.

His friend and publicist Kevin Calabro confirmed his death to CNN.

"Neal Casal's passing is not only a huge loss for our music community, but for the world as a whole. He brought warmth and kindness with him wherever he went," Calabro said in an email.

"He was a serious person with a deep intellect, humility and desire to connect in a meaningful way with the world around him. Traits often too rarely found in today's social media culture. It was honor to represent him. I miss him dearly already."

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