Justin Townes Earle, son of legendary country singer Steve Earle, has died unexpectedly. He was 38.
The musician's family released a public statement on his official Instagram and Facebook pages regarding his sudden passing.
"It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of our son, husband, father and friend Justin," the statement read. "So many of you have relied on his music and lyrics over the years and we hope that his music will continue to guide you on your journeys."
"You will be missed dearly Justin," the message concluded, ending by enclosing the lyrics to the late singer's single "Looking for a Place to Land." No cause of death has been released.
Reaction to Justin's passing was swift, with author Stephen King reacting with disbelief. "It appears that Justin Townes Earle has died. I hope it's a hoax but fear it is not. What a loss," he wrote in a tweet.
Fellow country act Parker McCollum encouraged fans to pay tribute to the late singer by listening to his music. "RIP Justin Townes Earle. What a talent he was," he tweeted. "If you get the chance, listen to "far away in another town" by him. One of all time favorite end of the day tunes."
Indie band Head & the Heart also took to Twitter to offer their sincerest condolences. "RIP Justin Townes Earle...," the band wrote. "We had the pleasure of playing a few shows together. He was such an immense songwriter and authentic soul. This year is a thief."
Earle came into the music scene in 2007 with the release of his 6-song EP, "Yuma." He went on to release several albums throughout his career as a musician -- his most recent was "The Saint of Lost Causes," which was released in May 2019.
Earle also won the Americana Music Association's emerging artist of the year award in 2009 and the association's song of the year award for his hit "Harlem River Blues" in 2011.
He leaves behind his wife, Jenn Marie, their daughter Etta St. James, as well as his parents and other family members.
