TAOS, N.M. — Country music legend Joe Ely passed away at his home in Taos on Monday after a prolonged battle with several health issues, including Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and pneumonia. He was 78. At the time of his death, Ely was surrounded by his loving wife, Sharon, and daughter, Marie, who were by his side during his final moments.
Born on February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, Ely grew up in Lubbock before making Austin his home. Known for his fusion of honky-tonk, rock, and roadhouse blues, Ely was pivotal in shaping the progressive country music scene and garnered a fan base that spanned far beyond traditional country music listeners.
Ely’s musical journey took off in 1972 when he co-founded The Flatlanders with fellow Lubbock natives Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. Although their initial collaboration was short-lived, releasing only one album, “All American Music,” their influence on the country-rock genre was lasting.
He launched his solo career with a self-titled album released under MCA Records in 1977, marking the beginning of what would become a prolific multi-decade career. By 1978, his album “Honky Tonk Masquerade” had successfully blended classic country motifs with rock elements, reinforcing his reputation as an artist who continually defied genre constraints.
Ely’s versatility was further evidenced by his unexpected alliances, most notably with British punk rock band The Clash. Not only did he contribute vocals to their 1982 hit “Should I Stay or Should I Go,” he also joined them on U.S. and UK tours, demonstrating a remarkable ability to connect with diverse musical audiences.
His credentials also include opening for the Rolling Stones during their 1981 tour. Such high-profile associations helped introduce Ely’s unique sound to broader audiences, expanding his impact on the music industry.
Beyond his public collaborations, Ely shared a notable musical bond with Bruce Springsteen. The two worked together on several projects, including Ely’s 1995 album “Letter to Laredo” and his 2024 release “Driven to Drive.” Springsteen, commemorating Ely’s contributions and friendship, expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing him as “a singular American singer, a great musician and artist.”
Ely’s contributions to music were recognized with a Grammy award in 1999, when he won for ‘Best Mexican-American Music Performance’ with Los Super Seven, a testament to his ability to transcend musical and cultural barriers.
His final album, “Love and Freedom,” released in February 2025, was the culmination of his lifelong dedication to crafting influential music. Despite worsening health, including a diagnosis of cerebral amyloid angiopathy in 2024, Ely continued to engage with his art, sifting through past recordings with his wife to create what would be his last contribution to the world of music.
Ely’s impact extended beyond the recording studio. He is remembered for his energetic live performances that captured the essence of American roots music with vigor and passion. Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, reminisced about Ely’s dynamic stage presence, acknowledging his capability to rival music greats like Bruce Springsteen and the Rolling Stones in live performance intensity.
The news of his death was first shared by his family via a Facebook post, noting Ely’s significant role in the lineage of musicians from Lubbock who later became central figures in Austin’s vibrant music scene.
Ely is survived by his wife, Sharon, and daughter, Marie. His passing not only leaves a void in the lives of his family and friends but also marks the end of an era in the Texas country and progressive country music movements, impacting future generations of artists inspired by his pioneering spirit and boundless creativity.