Joe Ely

Joe Ely
Ely in 2017
Ely in 2017
Background information
Born(1947-02-09)February 9, 1947
Amarillo, Texas, U.S.
OriginLubbock, Texas, U.S.
DiedDecember 15, 2025(2025-12-15) (aged 78)
Taos, New Mexico, U.S.
Genres
Occupation(s)
  • Singer-songwriter
  • musician
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • guitar
Years active1970–2025
Labels
Websiteely.com

Joe Ely (/ˈiːli/; February 9, 1947 – December 15, 2025) was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. He was "one of the main movers" of Austin, Texas's progressive country in the 1970s and 1980s. He sang with Bruce Springsteen, Uncle Tupelo, Los Super Seven, The Chieftains, James McMurtry, The Clash, Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt and Guy Clark.

In September 2025, Ely announced he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. Ely died from pneumonia caused by the diseases at his home in Taos, New Mexico on December 15, 2025, at the age of 78.

References

  1. ↑ Dickens, Rob (October 9, 2015). "Joe Ely Gets Personal". No Depression. Retrieved 2023-07-22.
  2. 1 2 Bodden, James H. (July 13, 2005). "The life of Joe Ely". Arizona Daily Sun. Archived from the original on 2023-07-22. Retrieved 2023-07-22.
  3. ↑ Ruhlmann, William. "Joe Ely Biography". AllMusic. Retrieved 2023-07-22.
  4. ↑ Linder, Brian (September 15, 2025). "Beloved country music singer-songwriter reveals two devastating health diagnoses". Pennlive.com. Retrieved December 16, 2025.
  5. ↑ Hudak, Joseph. "Joe Ely, Progressive Texas Country Legend Who Toured With the Clash, Dead at 78". Rolling Stone. Retrieved December 15, 2025.
  6. ↑ Willman, Chris. "Joe Ely, Texas Country-Rock Hero Who Grew His Fan Base Touring With the Clash, Dies at 78". Variety. Retrieved December 15, 2025.

Other websites