One of the most unique rising stars in the country music world has passed away.
Luke Bell, who had been missing for about a week, was found dead in Arizona this week.
Bell was only 32 years old.
Rising Star
Bell had a meteoric rise to face in the country music world.
Not long ago, you could have found his name on the marquee of a local honky-tonk in Texas or New Orleans.
Several years ago, he packed his bags, left his Wyoming home, and hit the road to bring his music directly to the people.
He eventually found his way to Nashville, producing an eponymous album in 2016 that put him on the map.
In a day and age of copycat singers, he had a honey-throated sound that made him truly unique.
That voice got the attention of the likes of Alabama Shakes, Margo Price, Langhorne Slim, Willie Nelson, and Dwight Yoakam, just to name a few, and all of whom he had collaborative efforts with.
As his star rose, Bell stated, “To be honest, I live in the day, and I count smiles.
“That’s it. Listen, half the time, I end up drinking beer with my neighbors. Life’s not that bad.”
Friend and fellow singer Matt Kinman confirmed Bell’s death.
While Kinman did not reveal a cause of death, he confirmed that Bell had been diagnosed as bipolar, recently changing his medications.
He believed that might have “played a role” in Bell’s disappearance.
Bell had been reported missing on August 20 in Arizona, with this body being found in Tucson on Monday, more than a week later.
His death rocked the industry…
Man…Luke Bell…what the fuck. RIP to a real one. Been a long time since I saw him and I was just talking about him the other day wondering what he’s been up to. Truly a sad night for country music.
— ʎǝlpǝH ɐnɥsoſ (@JoshuaHedley) August 30, 2022
Mike and the Moonpies added, “Word just came down on the passing of Luke Bell and we’re heartbroken over the news.
“I can vividly remember the first time I met Luke at Hole in the Wall over a decade ago, down to the clothes on his back.
“The man (and his music) left an impression.
“He was a real deal traveling troubadour out there on that lost highway.
“Do yourself a favor and put on some Luke Bell tunes tonight in his memory.
“Rest In Peace, friend.”
Source: New York Post
