Joe Ely has passed away at 78. The country music singer/songwriter recently revealed that he was battling Lewy Body and Parkinson's
during a post on Facebook.Videos by Wide Open Country
"Together with his wife Sharon, Joe is sharing their journey — not to dwell in hardship, but to bring understanding, awareness, and hope through the healing power of music," the post read.
According to a statement shared on the same Facebook account following Ely's death, he passed away with his wife, Sharon and his daughter, Marie at his side.
"Legendary songwriter, singer, and raconteur Joe Ely died today from complications of Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson's and pneumonia,"
the statement read. "His beloved wife Sharon and daughter Marie were at his side at their home in Taos, New Mexico. 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. Ely signed with MCA Records in the 1970s and spent more than five decades recording and performing around the world. A full obituary and more information will follow in the coming days."While Ely's passing will be a tough blow to country music fans, this isn't the last you will hear of him. In a previous
Facebook post, Ely and Sharon announced they would be releasing some of his new music after recently finding some of his old recordings.Joe Ely Previously Worked With the Heavyweights of the Rock Industry
There's no denying that Ely is a legend within the country music genre. However, during his career, he also worked with some titans of the rock industry. He operated as a supporting acts for bands such as the Rolling Stones, The Clash along with artists such as Stevie Nicks and the venerable Bruce Springsteen.
"His true measure came through in the dynamic intensity of his powerhouse live performances, where he could stand his ground aside fellow zealots Bruce Springsteen, who recorded duets with Ely, and the Stones and the Clash, who took Ely on tour as an opening act," Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said.
The music world continues to lose legendary talents at a rapid pace. His family will now require privacy as they mourn his loss. For that reason, no information regarding Ely's funeral or service have been released, and will likely be kept to a small circle of family and friends.
