Veteran country star Willie Nelson has paid tribute to his longtime bass player Dan 'BEE' SPEARS following his death at the age of 62.
Spears, who played with the musician for more than 40 years, was found dead on Thursday night (08Dec11).
He reportedly slipped and fell as he stepped out of his motor home in Tennessee and died from exposure, according to Texas television station Kxan.
A statement posted on Nelson's website reads, "We are deeply saddened by the death of Family member Dan 'Bee' Spears, long time friend and bassist for Willie Nelson and Family. We are still in shock and gathering details as the day continues. He apparently died of accidental exposure at his property near Nashville, Tennessee."
Spears was hired by Nelson in 1968 when he was just a teenager and he went on to play on many of the star's hit albums, as well as touring as part of his band.