Glide is sad to report that mandolin virtuoso and all around jam improvisational ambassador Jeff Austin has passed away at age 45. Austin was one of the founding members of bluegrass group Yonder Mountain String Band and helped propel the group to some of the scene’s biggest stages including Bonnaroo. After 15 years with the band, Austin left to pursue a solo career with the Jeff Austin Band. Glide interviewed Austin most recently in 2014 following his departure,
Regardless, Austin absolutely ripped on his instrument and sang with a howl that few in bluegrass or rock for that matter had heard. A rock star with the mandolin, some consider Austin’s prowess may not be heard of again.
Austin’s family posted to Twitter and the Nederland-based group posted on their Facebook page Tuesday about his passing. On Austin’s own Facebook page Saturday it was revealed that he was canceling his upcoming music sets due to an unspecified medical emergency. The cause of his death has still not been released.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved family member, mandolinist, singer, songwriter and founder of The Jeff Austin Band, and Yonder Mountain String Band, Jeff Austin. Austin passed away June 24, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. He was son of Eileen Austin, husband to Devlyn, and father to Lily Rose (12), Penelope (5), and Jude Patrick (2). He was a dear friend whose music touched the lives of so many, and will be sorely missed,” read an official statement on his passing.”
Check out Austin performing with his band earlier this month in Iowa during one of his last live performances….
