Bluegrass musician Jeff Austin died Monday in Seattle after being put into a medically induced coma. Austin, founder of the Jeff Austin Band, was scheduled to perform with the The Travelin’ McCourys Friday night at ROMP, but cancelled his performance the day before his death due to a “medical emergency.”
No cause of death has been reported for the 45-year-old musician.
According to ROMP officials, Austin’s longtime friend and collaborator Larry Keel will be performing in the musician’s place. The Larry Keel Experience will take the stage for one set before being joined by The Travelin’ McCourys to perform the Grateful Ball.
“As many of you know, ROMP alum and favorite Jeff Austin experienced a medical emergency and had to cancel upcoming dates, including his appearance at ROMP. Our thoughts are with Jeff and his family,” a statement from ROMP reads.
Austin co-founded the Yonder Mountain String Band in 1998 with bandmate and banjo player Dave Johnston. After 15 years with the band, Austin announced in 2013 that he would be leaving to embark on a solo career and created the Jeff Austin Band.
Yonder Mountain String Band was extremely successful as a progressive bluegrass band, even performing at the Democratic National Convention in 2008. Austin previously played at ROMP in 2017.
In a statement from Austin’s family, details of the the bluegrass musician’s death, as well as his life as an artist, husband and father of three, were summarized.
“Austin passed away June 24, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. He was a dear friend whose music touched the lives of so many, and will be sorely missed,” the statement reads.
Yonder Mountain String Band expressed their condolences via Facebook on Monday.
“We are saddened to report that we have lost our brother Jeff Austin. Remembering the incredible times and magical moments puts us at a profound loss for words,” the band wrote.
