The music world is in mourning as Jon Dee Graham has passed away at the age of 67. Not only is he known as a solo artist, songwriter, and guitarist, but Graham also gained fame as a member of punk band The Skunks and later True Believers. Now, tributes are pouring in.
Graham’s family announced the news of his death on March 27 with a Facebook post. It began, “I truly have no words. My father, Jon Dee Graham, passed away this morning. He was loved by so many people and touched so many people with his music, his kindness, and his endless sense of humor. His music is a gift to the world that will live on forever.”
The post then discussed the specifics, including that he’d passed away that morning and that they’d called EMS.
It continued, “the cardinals, that he loved so much, suddenly came in droves and were chirping. Some say that means the angels are here. And a tree that we were sure was dead [sprouted] 3 sprouts. Jon Dee said he had been taking to the tree since being released from the hospital a few days ago.”
The statement ended, “Our shock and devastating grief have left us in a place where we can’t take phone calls. Thank you for loving him.”
Tributes Are Pouring In For Jon Dee Graham
Graham is considered a legend in music, especially among Austin-based singer-songwriters. Because of this, many of his fans are flocking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy.
One person said on Facebook, “Jon Dee Graham belongs on the Mount Rushmore of Austin rock. I first saw your dad in 1978 at Raul’s with the Skunks and many times after that. I feel so fortunate to have that experience. RIP”
Someone else wrote, “So sad to hear this news and so sorry for your loss. Jon Dee was one of my favorite musicians and seemed like such a great guy. I would plan my business trips to Austin around seeing him at his Wednesday night Continental Club gig. Met him at Whole Foods one time, and he could not have been more gracious. Damn.”
A fan on X stated, “Austin lost a real one today with the passing of Jon Dee Graham. A songwriter’s songwriter. Grit, humor, kindness in every note. His family shared signs this morning: cardinals gathering, a dead tree showing life again. Feels fitting. Play him loud tonight. Texas won’t forget.”
He Leaves Behind a Massive Legacy
Graham began his music career in the late 1970s. According to Penn Live, he dropped out of law school at the University of Texas in 1979 to join The Skunks. Throughout his career, he was inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame three times- as a solo artist and with his stints in The Skunks and True Believers.
His catalogue includes 14 studio albums, with his debut being “Escape From Monster Island.” His final album, “Only Dead For A Little While,” was released in 2023. Graham will be missed.
