Former Wilco member Jay Bennett died Sunday in Urbana, Illinois. This is a tragic end to a wonderful musician who often did not receive the credit he deserved for his contributions to Wilco and numerous other artists (check out his Wiki page here and also this link which includes a list of his contributions).
Deb Bernardini, Wilco's publicist, released the following statement from Wilco leader Jeff Tweedy:
"We are all deeply saddened by this tragedy. We will miss Jay as we remember him -- as a truly unique and gifted human being and one who made welcome and significant contributions to the band's songs and evolution. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends in this very difficult time."
The death of anyone is time to sit back and take time to ponder their life, but your own as well. What makes this circumstance tragic is that it appeared Bennett was uninsured at the time of his death and as a result, was suing Wilco for unpaid royalties just so he could cover his medical costs. Gawker has an extensive article on his death at this link.In the world of rock n' roll the side musicians and people behind the scenes often get lost in the shuffle. Bennett was a wondrous musician who contributed significantly to the Wilco sound. Watching their documentary film I Am Trying To Break Your Heart was a difficult experience because in my humble opinion, Bennett was dismissed from the band unceremoniously. The album that he was dismissed during the recording of, Yankee Foxtrot Hotel, proved to be the band's break through success largely due to the infamous record company battles the band endured.
Essential reading regarding Jay Bennett:
Wilco is a band whose existence in rock n' roll is unique. I often encounter people who don't understand why the band are critic's darlings and this is easily understood as their music is not for everyone. However, I would highly suggest checking out their third record, Summerteeth, which will take you on a wondrous journey of power-pop landscapes with introspective and yearing lyrics influenced by Tweedy's marital issues at that time. My favorite tracks on the record, "Can't Stand It", "ELT", "I'm Always In Love" and "Nothing'severgonnastandinmyway(again)", all of which Jay Bennett co-wrote. Despite the differences he and Jeff Tweedy had, he was invaluable to Wilco, their breakthrough albums and ultimately their legacy.
Jay Bennett will be missed and condolences go out to his family and friends.
Wilco on Austin City Limits 1999
For the full show check out the following links:
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 1)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 2)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 3)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 4)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 5)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 6)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 7)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 8)
Wilco - Austin City Limits 8-6-99 (Part 9)
Lastly: My review of Wilco from their Chicago residency in 2008 at this link.
