Joe Ely, the American singer, songwriter and guitarist who helped define Texas progressive country, has died aged 78. Ely passed away on December 15, 2025, at his home in Taos, New Mexico. His death followed complications from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. He was surrounded by his wife and manager Sharon, and daughter Marie.
Born on February 9, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, Ely became one of the central architects of the Austin music movement. His work bridged country, rock, folk and border music, creating a template that influenced generations. Noise11 recognises Ely as a key figure who reshaped American roots music during the 1970s and beyond.
Ely spent his formative years in Lubbock, Texas, attending Monterey High School and absorbing regional sounds. In 1971, he formed The Flatlanders with Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. The trio blended country traditions, folk storytelling and rock energy, shaping a distinctive West Texas identity.
The Flatlanders recorded their debut album in 1972 but soon disbanded. Each member pursued separate careers, yet their creative bond endured. The group later reunited, releasing Now Again in 2002, followed by further albums that reinforced their collective legacy. The Flatlanders became a cornerstone of Texas songwriting history.
Joe Ely released his self titled debut album in 1977, announcing a bold new voice within country music. Albums such as Honky Tonk Masquerade and Down On The Drag established his narrative songwriting and restless musical spirit. Ely quickly became synonymous with Austin’s progressive country movement.
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Ely emerged as a dynamic live performer. He forged a reputation for intensity and adaptability, drawing both country audiences and rock fans. His work placed Texas music firmly within an international conversation.
In 1978, Ely travelled to London, where he connected with The Clash. Mutual respect led to shared tours across the United States and Mexico. Ely later sang backing vocals on Should I Stay Or Should I Go. The Clash referenced him by name on If Music Could Talk from Sandinista!.
Ely collaborated across genres with artists including Bruce Springsteen, The Chieftains, Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt and Guy Clark. These partnerships reflected his openness and musical curiosity. Ely’s career consistently crossed stylistic boundaries without losing its Texas grounding.
Throughout his career, Ely released a steady flow of studio and live albums, many through MCA Records. Key releases included Musta Notta Gotta Lotta, Hi-Res, Lord Of The Highway and Love And Danger. His catalogue documented constant evolution rather than repetition.
In later years, Ely embraced independence, launching Rack ‘Em Records. Albums such as Happy Songs From Rattlesnake Gulch and Panhandle Rambler reflected mature reflection and regional storytelling. His final studio album, Love And Freedom, was released in 2025.
Ely’s contributions earned wide recognition. He was named Texas State Musician in 2016 and inducted into the Austin City Limits Hall Of Fame in 2022. His influence extended beyond recordings, shaping live performance culture and songwriter communities.
In September 2025, Ely publicly shared his diagnoses, framing music as a source of understanding and hope. His passing marks the end of a defining chapter in American roots music.
Joe Ely leaves behind a body of work that connected landscapes, traditions and audiences. His voice remains inseparable from the story of Texas music.
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