Country icon Joe Ely dies aged 78, months after illness | Music News

Joe Ely, the legendary singer, songwriter and guitarist who toured with famend bands The Clash and The Rolling Stones and was a key determine in the Nineteen Seventies progressive nation music motion, handed away at the age of 78 on Monday, December 15, in Taos, New Mexico. His death was confirmed via posts on his social media accounts.

“Legendary songwriter, singer, and raconteur Joe Ely died today from complications of Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s and pneumonia,” the post acknowledged. “His beloved wife Sharon and daughter Marie were at his side at their home in Taos, New Mexico. Ely was born February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas. He was a leader of the extraordinary parade of artists raised in Lubbock who later settled in the live music capital of Austin. Ely signed with MCA Records in the 1970s and spent more than five decades recording and performing around the world. A full obituary and more information will follow in the coming days,” the assertion concluded.

Heartbroken followers flooded the feedback part to pay their respects to the late star. “I’m shattered. Joe’s music and storytelling has meant so much to me for a good part of my 65 years. Godspeed on your journey Joe! Condolences to the family and friends,” one fan wrote.

“Oh no…. I am heartbroken to read this sad news. Joe was one of the nicest guys I ever met. I got to know him through The Clash…He was such an amazing singer and songwriter. I loved his music and had the pleasure of watching him perform many times. I’m sending much love to Sharon and Marie…I’ll miss you Joe, and I like to think that you are up there with Joe Strummer and all of your musician friends in Heaven. Rest In Peace Sweet Joe. You were so special,” another expressed.

A 3rd shared: “Rest in peace and light with the angels Joe. Condolences to his family and all those whom loved him. It was such a privilege seeing him play in Australia with The Flatlanders at a small intimate show in Melbourne. He was everything I thought he’d be, a gentleman, an incredible storyteller and musician. Thank you for the music.”

A fourth fan wrote: “My favorite. His music was a soundtrack to much of my life. You will be missed by many but your beautiful music will live on. Thank you for all the great songs stories and music. R.I.P. Joe.”

A fifth lamented: “I’m gutted. Joe Ely gave me so much joy. What a performer! What a songwriter! What a legacy! Thinking of his family. Grieving, too.”

Meanwhile, a sixth reminisced: “When I was deep in the Texas music scene in the 80s and early 90s, Joe Ely’s influence on everyone was just a given. The music he inspired is immeasurable. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.”

In addition to his collaborations with The Rolling Stones and the Clash, Joe also shared the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Uncle Tupelo, Los Super Seven, The Chieftains, James McMurtry, Lyle Lovett, and Guy Clark.

He had just revealed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and Lewy physique dementia in September of this yr.