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How did Jeff LaBar die? Cinderella guitarist mourned by fans after tragic death at 58

Iconic metal guitarist Jeff LaBar, known for being a member of the band 'Cinderella', has died at the age of 58

Iconic metal guitarist Jeff LaBar, known for being a member of the band 'Cinderella', has died at the age of 58 years. LaBar played for the glam metal band from 1985 till their breakup in 2017. He was well-known for his performances in Cinderella's albums like 'Night Songs', 'Long Cold Winter', 'Heartbreak Station', and 'Still Climbing'. His death was confirmed on social media by his son Sebastian LaBar, who is a guitarist himself as well. 

The grief-stricken son posted a tribute to his late father with a series of photos, writing, "So i just got the call… @jefflabar, my father, my hero, my idol, passed away today. I’m currently at a loss for words. I love you pop! ❤️ if you could, please share pictures or video of all the fun times we all had with my dad. It would be greatly appreciated." LaBar passed away on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. He is survived by his second wife Debinique LaBar and son Sebastian — who is a guitarist for bands Mach22 and Tantric. LaBar's death comes on the heels of deaths of celebs like actors Toby Kirkup, Charlie Robinson, and WWE Hall of Famer Paul Orndorff, among others. 

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How did Jeff LaBar die? 

LaBar had joined Cinderella four years after the band's formation in 1982, after the original lead guitarist Michael Schermick aka Michael Kelly Smith was replaced. Aside from appearing on all four of Cinderella's albums, he also performed for their two greatest hits compilation CDs, as well as the live project 'Live At The Key Club'. 

The 1963-born guitarist helped the metal band deliver classic hit numbers like 'Heartbreak Station', 'Somebody Save Me', 'Don't Know What You've Got Until It's Gone', 'Nobody's Fool', 'The Last Mile' etc. With his contribution, the band sold over 15 million records across the world. 

Alongside Cinderella, LaBar also played for other bands like Naked Beggars, Freakshow, and Cheap Thrill. Since 2014, he was also known for heading a solo project. 

While the cause of Jeff LaBar's death is not exactly certain at the moment, the guitarist's struggle with alcoholism is well-known. He has also dealt with substance abuse for years. In fact, in 2016, LaBar blamed his own drinking problems as the root cause for Cinderella's inactivity for years. He was believed to be caught in a vicious cycle where the inactivity eventually pushed him towards substance abuse. 

Meanwhile, fans of Jeff LaBar posted heartfelt tributes to their favorite legend after learning about his tragic untimely death. 

Musician Jasmine Cain posted, "And here I am...posting something I was hoping to never have to post. My hero, supporter, and friend is gone. It caught me completely off guard today. I can't tell you what this guy meant to me. Debby hooked me up to do the music video for "No Strings" and eventually we became his backup band along with Sebastian LaBar who will now carry on his legacy. Everyone is crushed and devastated right now so please give em all a minute to process. Long live, Jeff Labar. I miss him already. RIP"

Writer Mitch Lafon tweeted, "Cinderella’s Jeff LaBar has passed. Thank you for the music & memories Jeff. Rest in Peace #80s"

Radio personality Eddie Trunk tweeted, "In the middle of a TV shoot and on a break and just hearing now of Jeff LaBar passing away. Condolences to his family, friends and fans. Tragic sad news. Great guy who will be missed. RIP."

"I’m deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Jeff LaBar. I had the honor of meeting Jeff multiple times when he would attend our shows in Nashville. He was always a gentleman & very kind. May God bless you Jeff & may God bless the LaBar family, friends & fans worldwide," tweeted Stryper guitarist Michael Sweet.