R.I.P. Jay Bennett

If you’re a fan of the band Wilco, or just a fan of music in general, you’ve probably run across Jay Bennett at some point over the past 15-20 years. Jay was a member of Wilco during, arguably, their most creative period, releasing Summerteeth and the much-lauded Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. He died early yesterday morning in his sleep in Urbana, Illinois. He was only 45. At this time, the cause of death is unknown.

Jay was a talented multi-instrumentalist who joined Wilco as a tour musician right after their first albm, A.M., was released. He later joined the band and became one of the driving forces behind the band’s growth over the following seven years. His messy break from the band was chonicled in the 2002 documentary, I Am Trying to Break Your Heart.

While that film added to my personal distaste for parts of Bennett’s personality, it solidified my deep respect for his musical talent. Like most of us, he seemed like a real bastard to get along with at times, but was so incredibly talented that you’d let it slide. He was definately over-looked during his too-short career. I hope that, as time goes on, he get’s his due. We’ll miss you, Jay.

Go back to sleep now
My darlin
And I’ll keep all the bad dreams away
Breathe now, think sweet things
And I’ll think of all the right words to say

-Wilco, My Darling