The world of American music is mourning the loss of a true country rock original.
Joe Ely, the Texas-born singer, songwriter and trailblazer who helped shape outlaw country and Americana, has died aged 78, following a series of serious health complications. His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades — and left an indelible mark on generations of musicians.
Ely died peacefully at his home in Taos, New Mexico, surrounded by his wife Sharon and daughter Marie, according to a statement shared on his official Facebook page. 
The announcement confirmed that the legendary artist passed away due to complications from Lewy Body dementia, Parkinson’s disease and pneumonia — illnesses he had been battling largely out of the public eye.
A VOICE BORN OF TEXAS
A VOICE BORN OF TEXASBorn on February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, Joe Ely grew up immersed in the sounds, stories and wide-open landscapes that would later define his music. From the very beginning, his work blended hardcore honky-tonk, rock-and-roll, roadhouse blues and western swing — a fusion that felt both rebellious and deeply rooted.
Ely emerged as a key figure in the progressive country movement, standing at the crossroads of outlaw country, alt-country, Texas country and Americana. His music refused to be boxed in — just like the man himself.
As critics often noted, you could hear the road in his voice — dusty, defiant, and unmistakably American.
COLLABORATIONS THAT DEFIED GENRES
COLLABORATIONS THAT DEFIED GENRES
While Ely was revered within country music, his influence stretched far beyond it. Over the years, he collaborated with an extraordinary range of artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Lyle Lovett, The Clash and even The Rolling Stones.
Bruce Springsteen, who recorded duets with Ely and counted him as a close friend, led tributes with an emotional statement:
“We’re deeply saddened by the loss of Joe Ely — a singular American singer, a great musician and a great artist. I was lucky enough to count Joe as a true friend. I’ll miss that voice and his companionship. We’ve lost an American classic.”
Their friendship symbolised Ely’s rare ability to move effortlessly between musical worlds — respected by punks, rockers and country traditionalists alike.
A FORCE OF NATURE ON STAGE
A FORCE OF NATURE ON STAGE
Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame, praised Ely not just as a songwriter, but as a live performer of extraordinary intensity:
“Joe Ely performed American roots music with the fervour of a true believer. His musical style could only have emerged from Texas — blending honky-tonk, rock & roll, blues and conjunto. His true measure was his powerhouse live performances.”
Ely famously toured with The Clash, opened for The Rolling Stones, and stood shoulder to shoulder with icons — never overshadowed, never outmatched.
A CAREER DEFINED BY AUTHENTICITY
Ely began his journey with The Flatlanders, alongside fellow Lubbock natives Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. He later signed with MCA Records in the 1970s, launching a solo career that would see him record and perform around the world for over 50 years.
In 1999, he earned a Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Music Performance with Los Super Seven, further proving his ability to transcend musical boundaries. 
Yet despite his accolades, Ely remained known for his humility, warmth and devotion to the craft.
A FINAL GIFT TO FANS
A FINAL GIFT TO FANS
Earlier this year, Ely released his 29th studio album, Love & Freedom — a deeply symbolic farewell shaped from unreleased recordings discovered during his illness.
His wife Sharon revealed that Joe was determined the music be heard:
“Joe wanted people to listen to these songs and think about what they mean — especially in the times we’re living in.”
The album now stands as a final chapter in a career built on honesty, resilience and creative freedom.
A LEGACY THAT ENDURES
A LEGACY THAT ENDURESAs one critic once wrote:
“There’s no mistaking a Joe Ely album. His road-worn voice commands lyrics about life, love and the wandering spirit. That’s the essence of Texas music.”
Joe Ely may be gone — but his music, his spirit, and his influence will continue to travel the long roads he sang about.
A legend has fallen silent — but his songs will keep rolling on.
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