Texas Music Legend Joe Ely Dies at 78, Leaves Lasting Legacy

Joe Ely, the iconic Texas singer-songwriter, has died. He was 78 years old. The news was confirmed by his representative on Monday.

He passed away at his home in New Mexico. According to a statement to Rolling Stone, his death resulted from complications of Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s, and pneumonia.

A Career Forged in West Texas and Celebrated Worldwide

Ely was born in Amarillo and raised in Lubbock. The vast landscapes of West Texas deeply shaped his sound. He often returned there for inspiration before recording new music.

In the early 1970s, he co-founded the influential group the Flatlanders with Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. Their debut album saw little release at the time but later became a cult classic.

His self-titled solo debut arrived in 1977. The 1978 follow-up, “Honky Tonk Masquerade,” is widely considered a Texas masterpiece. It blended heartfelt ballads with sharp songcraft.

An Artist’s Artist With a Far-Reaching Influence

Ely never chased mainstream fame. Instead, he earned profound respect from fellow musicians. His work crossed genre boundaries effortlessly.

British punk icons The Clash became major fans. They name-checked him on their 1980 album “Sandinista!” and he later opened for their “London Calling” tour. Bruce Springsteen also praised him, calling his music “deeply authentic.”

He collaborated with a wide array of artists across decades. This included Linda Ronstadt, Paul McCartney, and the Grammy-winning collective Los Super Seven. His final album, “Love and Freedom,” was released earlier this year.

The music world has lost a true original with the death of Joe Ely. His gritty, authentic songwriting ensures his legacy in Texas music and beyond will play on forever.

Info at your fingertips

What was Joe Ely’s cause of death?

Joe Ely died from complications of Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and pneumonia. His representative confirmed this to Rolling Stone.

Was Joe Ely in a famous band?

Yes, he was a founding member of the Flatlanders with Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. The group is now seen as a foundational act in alternative country music.

How did The Clash know about Joe Ely?

The Clash discovered his music and became avid fans. They referenced him in a song lyric and later asked him to be the opening act on a major tour.

What is Joe Ely’s most famous album?

Many critics and fans point to 1978’s “Honky Tonk Masquerade” as his landmark record. It solidified his reputation as a masterful storyteller and performer.

Did Joe Ely win any Grammy awards?

Yes, he was part of the group Los Super Seven, which won a Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Album in 1999 for their self-titled release.