Eagles founder and guitarist Glenn Frey has died.

He died in New York from complications from "rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis and pneumonia," his family and fellow band members said.

A statement posted on the band's Facebook page said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our comrade, Eagles founder, Glenn Frey, in New York City on Monday, January 18th, 2016.

"Glenn fought a courageous battle for the past several weeks but, sadly, succumbed to complications from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Acute Ulcerative Colitis and Pneumonia.

"The Frey family would like to thank everyone who joined Glenn to fight this fight and hoped and prayed for his recovery.

"Words can neither describe our sorrow, nor our love and respect for all that he has given to us, his family, the music community & millions of fans worldwide."

Frey co-founded the Eagles with drummer Don Henley in LA in the early 1970s along with guitarist Bernie Leadon and bassist Randy Meisner.

The band were known for hits such as "Hotel California" and "Life in the Fast Lane."