JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE, 1982-2020
Singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle, the son of Steve Earle who blossomed as an Americana star over the last decade and a half, has died. He was 38.
In a post on Earle’s Facebook page, photographer Joshua Black Wilkins writes: “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. You will be missed dearly Justin.”
Lyrics from “Looking for A Place to Land” were included in the post, which did not include a cause, location or date of his death.
Earle’s solo recording career began with Yuma (Bloodshot) in 2007, the first of nine albums he would release. His last album was 2019’s The Saint of Lost Causes (New West) and, like his father’s work, he took on social issues such as the criminal justice system.
He received the Emerging Act of the Year award at the 2009 Americana Music Association Honors & Awards and his “Harlem River Blues” was named Song of the Year at the 2011 event.
As a teenager, Earle played in Nashville bands before joining his father’s band, The Dukes. Steve Earle fired Justin, citing his son’s drug use. Justin Townes Earle had been sober in recent years though he struggled with heroin addiction in his teens and 20s.
Fellow artists offered condolences and remembrances via social media.
How terrible that the great Justin Townes Earle has died - what a merciless place America has become, that yet another finely-tuned talent has left this world altogether.
— Robyn Hitchcock (@RobynHitchcock) August 24, 2020
sending love and condolences to Steve Earle and the entire family of Justin Townes Earle... he was always kind to me and he’s gone too soon
— Margo Price (@MissMargoPrice) August 24, 2020
Good night, Justin Townes Earle. I opened for you once in Portland and then watched your whole show side stage, totally amazed. You were real.
— Hiss Golden Messenger (@hissgldnmssr) August 24, 2020
I'm saddened to hear that we have lost Justin Townes Earle and at such a young age. I worked with him last year and found him to be a brilliant songwriter and generous soul. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
— Billy Bragg (@billybragg) August 24, 2020
My friend, Justin Townes Earle, has passed away. Such a tremendous songwriter...he took me on 2 tours and always treated me so kindly....he understood struggle, he understood joy...I saw him at the peaks and valleys of both through the 13 years I knew him...we will miss you JT ❤ pic.twitter.com/rq74Qu3Hif
— Samantha Crain (@sjcrain) August 24, 2020
RIP Justin Townes Earle...
— The Head & The Heart (@headandtheheart) August 24, 2020
We had the pleasure of playing a few shows together. He was such an immense songwriter and authentic soul. This year is a thief.
RIP Justin Townes Earle...
— The Capitol Theatre 🐿 (@capitoltheatre) August 24, 2020
We had the honor of having him play our stage. He was such an incredible songwriter and talented soul. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, and everyone who was touched by his music. 📸: @DinoPhoto pic.twitter.com/4QB28lT7B0
Had a lot of good times and made a lot of good music with JTE. So sad for his family tonight.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) August 24, 2020
We’re heartbroken to hear of Justin’s passing. He was a sweetheart. I have fond memories of fun evenings in Portland, Denver and especially a blast in Toronto. Loved his wry sense of humor. RIP. Sad condolences to his many loved ones.
— Drive-By Truckers (@drivebytruckers) August 24, 2020
Justin Townes Earle 1982-2020 pic.twitter.com/AzerqkUZa1
— Steve Earle (@SteveEarle) August 24, 2020
