Jay Reatard has died at 29. The prolific garage-rocker was found dead early Wednesday morning after passing away in his sleep.
Having cut his teeth as a teenager on the Memphis scene in The Reatards, The Lost Sounds and countless other bands, it was with his 2006 debut solo album ‘Blood Visions,’ that saw Jay properly establish himself. Bolting out of the gates with the title track and maintaining a relentless energy from start to finish, he succeeded in creating a modern classic.
Signing to Matador Records in 2008 and adopting a more melodic sound, Jay never quite matched the same consistency of ‘Blood Visions’ but songs such as ‘Screaming Hand,’ ‘Always Wanting More’ and ‘It Ain’t Gonna Save Me’ remain some of his best.
Breaking news of Jay’s death, a statement on the Matador Records’ website said:
“Jay was as full of life as anyone we’ve ever met, and responsible for so many memorable moments as a person and artist. We’re honored to have known and worked with him, and we will miss him terribly.”
Artists such as Beck, No Age and The Pixies, who Jay recently supported on their ‘Doolittle’ tour, have also offered their condolences.
Here are a selection of high’s and low’s from Jay’s career:
Jay Reatard – It’s So Easy / My Shadow from whitney on Vimeo.
Jay Reatard performs See Saw at Le Poisson Rouge from Nicholas Gazin on Vimeo.
Jay Reatard Punch Video from Tim McCready on Vimeo.
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