12/16/2025
Today we honor the life and legacy of Joe Ely — a true Texas original and one of the most influential singer-songwriters in American music.
A founding member of The Flatlanders, Joe helped pioneer the progressive country movement and went on to a legendary solo career that spanned over five decades, blending honky-tonk, rock, Tex-Mex, and Americana in a sound that was unmistakably his own.
Along the way, he collaborated and shared stages with icons like The Clash, Bruce Springsteen, Linda Ronstadt, and more, and his fearless live performances won admiration from fans and fellow artists worldwide.
His impact was recognized with honors including the Americana Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award, being named Texas State Musician, and induction into the Austin City Limits Hall of Fame — milestones befitting a lifetime spent shaping the sound of Texas and roots music.
His voice, his songs, and his spirit will live on in every honky-tonk, roadhouse, and spirited gathering where music is played with grit and heart.
Rest easy, Joe. Thank you for the music. 🤍🎶
— Soundline Management & MacWilco Entertainment
