Alex Chilton
Alex Chilton, singer and guitarist of Big Star, one of the most influential rock groups to emerge from the early 1970s, has passed away at the age of 59. Chilton reportedly suffered a heart attack today in New Orleans, just days before Big Star were scheduled to perform at the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas. Chilton had been complaining about his health earlier in the day, and was eventually taken to a New Orleans hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Big Star drummer Jody Stephens confirmed Chilton’s passing, Memphis’ Commercial Appeal reports. “Alex passed away a couple of hours ago,” Stephens said. “I don’t have a lot of particulars, but they kind of suspect that it was a heart attack.”
I really don’t know what to say right now other than that countless bands and myriad singer/songwriters bear witness to his lasting influence on their music and Alex Chilton and those – and other – contributions he gave to the music world will be greatly missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out tonight to the family and friends of Alex. God Speed to you, sir, and may you rest in peace for all eternity.
Echoes & Shadows 