Ely died at his home in Taos, New Mexico, on Monday after suffering complications from Lewy Body Dementia, Parkinson’s disease and pneumonia, according to a statement on his Facebook account. His wife Sharon and their daughter Marie were by his side when he died.

Bruce Springsteen has always been a vocal fan of Joe Ely, the progressive Texas country legend who mixed country music with rock on albums like Honky Tonk Masquerade, was a member of the cult favorite band the Flatlanders, and even toured with the Clash. Ely died Monday at 78 after a long illness.

“Joe Ely (1947–2025) performed roots music like a true believer who knew music could transport souls. His musical style could only have emerged from Texas. His true measure came through in the dynamic intensity of his powerhouse live performances, where he could stand his ground… pic.twitter.com/KozLa4Xij9