Kings of Leon are mourning the death of a close relative this morning, May 27. 

Guitarist Jared Followill took to Twitter earlier today to break the sad news and wrote:

"Just lost my uncle Cleo. My tears could fill the Mississippi River right now. I'm an absolute mess."

Following a wave of replies, he thanked fans for their continued love and support, adding:

"Thank you all for being nice. This is a tough time."

The Followills have always been a tight-knit family with the band returning to their hometown for holidays and other events, and this tragic news comes after a period of happiness and celebration for the guys who recently attended Caleb's wedding and welcomed the arrival of Matthew's first son.  

Watch a recent interview with the band here: