Justin Townes Earle dead: Singer-songwriter son of Steve Earle has died aged 38
Americana singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle has passed away according to a statement posted on his official Instagram page leaving fans mourning the loss
Justin Townes Earle has died aged 38.
The Americana singer-songwriter was the son of musician Steve Earle and the cause of death is not immediately known.
The performer, who was known for his mix of old-time root and modern Americana had his death announced on his official Instagram page in a statement posted there.
It read: “It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of our son, husband, father and friend Justin.
“So many of you have relied on his music and lyrics over the years and we hope that his music will continue to guide you on your journeys.”
The post concluded: “You will be missed dearly Justin.”
This was accompanied by several lyrics from his 2014 record, Looking for a Place to Land.
Justin had battled drug and alcohol addiction in the past, something that had also blighted his father Steve.
Speaking in 2017 to podcast Walking the Floor, Justin claimed that he was finally sober after finding another way to channel his addictions.
He said: “I got all my craziness out of the way as a coffeehouse musician and a roadie.”
Justin was born on January 4, 1982 and his father Steve named him after his friend, songwriter Townes Van Zandt, much to the annoyance of his mother Carol.
Speaking to Rolling Stone last year, Justin revealed: “My mother hated Townes Van Zandt. My first name was supposed to be Townes, but my mother would not have it.
“She hated him because of the trouble that Dad and him got into but she still played his music.”
Justin made his debut on the music scene with 2007 EP, Yuma.
He won Song of the Year at the 2011 Americana Honours & Awards for Harlem River Blues after picking up the Emerging Act of the Year in 2009.
In 2012, he was nominated for Artist of the Year as his legacy continued to grow.
The Nashville-born star once spoke about performing with his father for the first time, when he was just 17.
Justin told Rolling Stone: “Me and my dad played a few Doc Watson songs. We’re Earles, we’re arrogant, and we always feel good about what we do, but it was intimidating.
“I’ll tell you, the second time we played together, I had to play with him and Guy Clark at MerleFest, in front of Doc Watson. It scared the s*** out of me.”
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