Songwriter Vic Chesnutt: 1964-2009

UPDATE: Chesnutt’s label, Constellation Records has confirmed that songwriter Vic Chesnutt died yesterday following a suicide attempt. A website has been set up by friend Kristen Hersh for donations to Chesnutt’s family.

Sketchy details have emerged regarding the condition of Athens, GA musician Vic Chesnutt following an attempted suicide. Early reports emerged saying that the songwriter was in a coma, which have now been followed by reports of his death. While there has been no official confirmation Chesnutt is actually dead, the Examiner is reporting it. Chesnut was discovered in the late 80′s by R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe, who would produce the paraplegic’s first two records. In addition to his solo work, Chesnutt collaborated with Elf Power, Lambchop, and Widespread Panic among others, and a 1996 tribute record to him featured covers performed by the likes of Madonna, Smashing Pumpkins, and Sparklehorse. He was 45.

Vic Chesnutt with Elf Power at Daytrotter (Free MP3s)