Black Stone Cherry have parted ways with bassist Jon Lawhon after 20 years. The news was announced by the band on social media.In the statement, Black Stone Cherry say, "It is with a heavy heart that we inform you that Jon Lawhon has decided to take an indefinite sabbatical from music and touring for personal reasons. As such, Jon will be stepping down as a member of Black Stone Cherry."We love Jon, we wish him all the best in all his future endeavours and will cherish the memories and legacy we've built with him over 20 years as a band. We ask that you please respect Jon and the band's privacy regarding this matter."In the meantime, we can't wait to play more rockin' Black Stone Cherry shows in 2021 and onward! Please stay on the look-out for new shows announcing near you!"Lawhon was a founding member of Black Stone Cherry, forming the band in 2001 with three high school friends: drummer John Fred Young, guitarist Ben Wells, and singer-guitarist Chris Robertson. The quartet commandeered a rehearsal space used by Young's father Richard, guitarist with southern rockers The Kentucky Headhunters, and the rest is history. It has not yet been announced who will replace Lawhon in the band, who are scheduled to perform at The Barn at Pain Fork in Barnardsville, NC, this coming Saturday. After further US shows over the next three months, the band are due to tour the UK in September, climaxing with a show at London's iconic Royal Albert Hall. Full dates below.