The Texas music community is mourning the loss of Joe Ely, a towering figure whose songwriting, voice, and restless spirit helped define generations of American music. Over a career spanning decades, Ely blended rock, folk, country, and border sounds into a body of work that felt both deeply personal and unmistakably Texan.
Raised in Lubbock, Joe Ely emerged from one of the most influential musical scenes in the state, forging lifelong creative bonds and carving a path that was uniquely his own. His songs captured the poetry of the open road, the pull of home, and the stories of people living between places. Whether on record or on stage, Ely brought honesty and intensity to every performance.
Joe Ely was more than a singular artist. He was a connector, collaborator, and mentor whose influence extended well beyond his own catalog. His music inspired countless songwriters and performers, and his commitment to artistic independence left a lasting imprint on Texas music and beyond.
That commitment is one of the many reasons Joe Ely held such a meaningful place at Sun Radio.
Joe Ely was crucial to the sound and spirit of Sun Radio. His music helped shape the foundation of what we play and what we stand for, and his belief in independent radio and community aligned deeply with our mission. He was not only an artist we admired, but a true supporter of the station and the music culture we work to uplift every day.
On March 5, 2014, Joe Ely performed at Texas Radio Live, a moment that remains especially significant to Sun Radio and our listeners. His performance embodied everything that made him so respected and beloved authenticity, generosity, and a deep connection to the audience.
Joe Ely’s legacy lives on through his music, the artists he inspired, and the communities he helped shape. His voice and vision will always be part of the story of Texas music and of Sun Radio.
Hear a special rebroadcast of his performance on Texas Radio Live, Wednesday December 17th at 7pm
