Paul Kantner, founding member of psychedelic rock pioneers Jefferson Airplane who died Thursday at age 74, received a touching tribute from his former bandmate Marty Balin.
In a Facebook post published late Thursday, Balin said that he and Kantner “opened new worlds.”
“So many memories rushing through my mind now. So many moments that he and I opened new worlds,” Balin wrote in the post, which is accompanied by a vintage photo of Kantner and Balin.
“He was the first guy I picked for the band and he was the first guy who taught me how to roll a joint,” Balin recalled. “And although I know he liked to play the devil’s advocate, I am sure he has earned his wings now.”
Kantner died of multiple organ failure and septic shock. He had suffered from multiple health problems over the years, including a heart attack in March 2015.
The musician was also paid a tribute by The Doors.
“Our condolences go out to the friends, family and fans of Paul Kantner of Jefferson Airplane on the news of his passing,” members of the band wrote on Facebook. “Music would not be the same without the sounds of The Doors and Jefferson Airplane, which both contributed so heavily to the signature sound of the 60s and 70s. They often shared the same bill.”