The world of American music is mourning the loss of legendary Texas singer-songwriter Joe Ely, who passed away at the age of 78 on Tuesday. The news was confirmed via a statement released on his social media platforms.
Ely, whose career spanned over five decades, was celebrated for his unique fusion of country, rock, and folk music, cemented by iconic songs such as “She Never Spoke Spanish to Me” and “Settle for Love.”
Cause of Death and Final Moments
Joe Ely passed away peacefully at his home in Taos, New Mexico. He was surrounded by his beloved wife, Sharon, and his daughter, Marie.
The official statement cited the cause of death as complications of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), Parkinson’s disease, and pneumonia.
- LBD: Lewy Body Dementia is a complex brain disorder linked to abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein (known as Lewy bodies) in the brain, impacting thinking, movement, behavior, and mood.
- Parkinson’s Disease: As described by the Mayo Clinic, Parkinson’s is a nervous system movement disorder that progressively worsens over time, characterized by symptoms like tremors and rigid muscles.
Ely and his wife Sharon had publicly shared his health journey in September, posting that he was diagnosed with LBD and Parkinson’s. At the time, they expressed their intent to bring “understanding, awareness, and hope through the healing power of music,” rather than dwelling on the hardship.
A Life in Music
Ely, who was born on February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, became a pivotal figure in the Texas music scene. The statement highlighted his roots and his subsequent influence:
“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.”
He signed with MCA Records in the 1970s and dedicated more than five decades to recording albums and performing around the globe. A full obituary and more information regarding the celebration of his life are expected to be released in the coming days.