Bluegrass musician Jeff Austin died in Seattle on Sunday – a day after telling fans a “medical emergency” was forcing him to cancel upcoming performances.
Austin, a mandolin player who co-founded the Yonder Mountain String Band, was 45. A cause of death was not immediately revealed. His booking manager, Barron Ruth, said Austin died June 23 after being put in a medically induced coma.
“My friends... due to a to a medical emergency I am unfortunately unable to play my sets next week at ROMP music festival, Back Home Appalachian Arts & Music Festival, and Smoky Run Music Festival,” read a message on his Facebook page last Saturday. "Thanks for your understanding and continued support.”
That message was followed Tuesday by this one: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved family member, mandolinist, singer, songwriter and founder of The Jeff Austin Band, and Yonder Mountain String Band.
“He was a dear friend whose music touched the lives of so many, and will be sorely missed.”
Austin performed in Yonger Mountain String Band for 15 years before launching a solo career in 2014.
“Remembering the incredible times and magical moments puts us at a profound loss for words,” read a message on Yonder’s Facebook page. “While we honour his memory, we will continue to pray for his family and for the journey they now face without him.”
Austin is survived by a wife and three children.