WASHINGTON (TNND) — Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel is mourning the death of his show's bandleader Cleto Escobedo III.

Kimmel shared news of 59-year-old Escobedo's death in a post on Instagram on Tuesday, writing, "Early this morning, we lost a great friend, father, son, musician and man, my longtime bandleader Cleto Escobedo III."

To say that we are heartbroken is an understatement. Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old. The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true. Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children and parents in your prayers," Kimmel said.

Escobedo and Kimmel grew up across the street from each other in Las Vegas.

Escobedo grew up to become a professional musician playing the saxophone and touring with Earth, Wind and Fire's Phillip Bailey and Paula Abdul. He also recorded with Marc Anthony, Tom Scott and Take Six.

When Kimmel got his late-night talk show in 2003, he pushed for Escobedo to lead the house band.

Escobedo's death comes after Thursday night's episode of Kimmel's show was canceled abruptly. However, the date and cause of Escobedo's death are not immediately known.

Escobedo's father is also a member of the Kimmel band and plays tenor and alto saxophones. Escobedo is also survived by his wife Lori and their two children.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.