Widespread Panic fans received heartbreaking news on Monday. The band announced that lead guitarist Jimmy Herring has been diagnosed with Stage 1 tonsil cancer. They shared, “Our Brother, Jimmy Herring, has been diagnosed with Stage 1 tonsil cancer. He will begin treatment immediately and is expected to make a full recovery. We’re relieved to report that part.”
As a result, the band has canceled their upcoming shows in Asheville, North Carolina, scheduled for July 25–27. They may also adjust the remainder of their tour schedule while Herring undergoes treatment. Widespread Panic confirmed that Herring will start treatment promptly and that a full recovery is anticipated.
Ticketholders for the Asheville shows will automatically receive refunds, though it is unclear if or when the shows will be rescheduled. The band expressed gratitude for the support and prayers as Jimmy and his family navigate this recovery.
Herring boasts a distinguished musical career. He began as the lead guitarist for Col. Bruce Hampton and the Aquarium Rescue Unit in 1997. In 2002, he joined the Other Ones, which featured original Grateful Dead members Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann.
In November 2005, Herring departed from Phil Lesh and Friends. Following George McConnell’s exit, Widespread Panic announced on August 3, 2006, that Herring would take over as lead guitarist. He debuted with the band at Radio City Music Hall and has toured with them since, contributing to three of their albums.
Herring released his first official solo album, Lifeboat, on Abstract Logix in 2008. He has also performed with Project Z and The Allman Brothers Band, and is a founding member of Jazz Is Dead and Aquarium Rescue Unit.
