Music
24 Aug 20

Nashville singer-songwriter Justin Townes Earle has died aged 38

The announcement shared lyrics from Earle’s 2014 track, ‘Looking for a Place to Land’, taken from ‘Single Mothers’: “I’ve crossed oceans / Fought freezing rain and blowing sand / I’ve crossed lines and roads and wondering rivers / Just looking for a place to land”.

Justin Townes Earle - musician and son of Grammy-winning artist Steve Earle - has passed away at the age of 38, it has been announced by his family.

A statement alongside a picture of Earle was posted to the musician’s official Facebook page earlier today (August 24).

“It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of our son, husband, father and friend Justin," the post reads.

“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.”

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A post shared by Justin Townes Earle (@justintownesearle)

Justin released eight studio albums throughout his career, with the latest – The Saint Of Lost Causes – released in May 2019.

Earle’s cause of death is not known to the public at the time of writing.

Named for his father’s friend and idol Townes Van Zandt, Earle battled addiction throughout his life.

His career saw him honoured twice at the Americana Music awards including for his best-known song, 'Harlem River Blues'.

Tributes to Earle were shared by his contemporaries, musicians and fans on social media this morning.

The musician Samantha Crain reflected on their friendship:

“Such a tremendous songwriter. He took me on two 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.”

His friend and collaborator Jason Isbell said: “Had a lot of good times and made a lot of good music with JTE. So sad for his family tonight.”

“Sad news about Justin Townes Earle," Frank Turner wrote.

"We played a handful of shows together over the years. He was a week younger than me but always felt like an older soul. A kind guy and a wonderful songwriter. RIP.”

Billy Bragg also expressed his heartfelt sadness at the news, writing:

“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.”

Author Stephen King also offered his condolences, saying: “It appears that Justin Townes Earle has died. I hope it’s a hoax but fear it is not. What a loss,” he said.

Earle is survived by his wife and young daughter.