Justin Townes Earle has died aged 38.
A family spokesperson took to Instagram to share the devastating news during the early hours of Monday morning.
The American singer was the son of rock and country singer, Steve Earle, who gave him the middle name ‘Townes’ in honour of Townes Van Zandt.
A cause of death has not yet been revealed.
Taking to Justin’s official Instagram account, a statement read: “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.”
Justin Townes Earle has died aged 38 (Image: Getty Images)
The post concluded with: “You will be missed dearly Justin,” alongside several of his lyrics from his 2014 record, Looking for a Place to Land.
Justin first broke onto the music scene back in 2007 with his EP, Yuma, before releasing nine studio albums.
His last studio album, The Saint of Lost Causes was released in 2019 which was named one of the best country and Americana albums of the year by Rolling Stone magazine.
Currently, no cause of death has been confirmed (Image: Redferns via Getty Images)
Similar to his famous father, Justin battled a drug and alcohol addiction but speaking on the Walking the Floor podcast in 2017, he stated that he was sober.
“I got all my craziness out of the way as a coffeehouse musician and a roadie,” he said.
Since the news of his passing, fans have taken to social media to pay tribute.
A spokesperson for the singer confirmed the news on social media
One tweet read: “The news of Justin Townes Earle’s passing has totally shattered me. One of the most talented musicians I’ve ever seen.”
While a second added: “Another tragic loss… Justin Townes Earle was a very talented performer and very underrated in my eyes… ‘Harlem River Blues’ album was an under the radar classic…”
A heartbroken third fan tweeted: “This breaks my heart into pieces… thinking of Justin’s daughter, wife and family at this time. Thank you for the gift of your music Justin.”
“Gutted to hear about Justin Townes Earle — condolences to his friends and family. Grateful to have worked with him, and for the beautiful songs he wrote. Take care, JTE,” said a former colleague.
Justin is survived by his wife, Jenn Marie Earle, who he married in 2013 and their daughter, Etta St. James Earle, three.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
