David Berman, the poet and singer/songwriter who was behind Silver Jews and Purple Mountains, has passed away, age 52.
Berman’s record label, Drag City, made the tragic announcement earlier today, saying “we couldn’t be more sorry to tell you this. David Berman passed away earlier today.”
“A great friend and one of the most inspiring individuals we’ve ever known is gone. Rest easy, David.”
We couldn't be more sorry to tell you this. David Berman passed away earlier today. A great friend and one of the most inspiring individuals we've ever known is gone. Rest easy, David. pic.twitter.com/5n5bctcu4j
— ???? ???? (@dragcityrecords) August 7, 2019
Following the disbandment of Silver Jews in 2009, after they released their last album Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea in 2008, Berman began working under the moniker Purple Mountains this year. He literally just released the self-titled debut album of the project, and was on the cusp of taking on a North American tour.
No cause of death has been revealed.
Rest In Peace, David Berman.