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Paul Kantner, founding member and guitarist of the iconic psychedelic rock band Jefferson Airplane, died yesterday of complications stemming from a heart attack. He was 74.

The group pioneered what became known as the San Francisco sound in the mid-1960s, with such hits as “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit,” which remain classic rock staples to this day.

Kantner, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, is first member of Jefferson Airplane’s founding member to have died. Other original band members are singer Marty Balin, singer Grace Slick, guitarist Jorma Kaukonen, bass player Jack Casady, and drummer/Moby Grape founder Skip Spence, who was replaced by Spencer Dryden in 1966.

Co-founder Marty Balin wrote on Facebook: "So many memories rushing through my mind now. So many moments that he and I opened new worlds. He was the first guy who taught me how to roll a joint. And although I know he liked to play the devil's advocate, I am sure he has earned his wings now. Sai Ram 'Go with God.'"

Kantner is survived by his two sons, Gareth and Alexander, and daughter China, whose mother is Jefferson Airplane/Starship singer Grace Slick.

Read SFGate’s story here.

See Jefferson Airplane performing “Sombody to Love” on American Bandstand in 1967: