Former Wilco member Jay Bennett passes at 45

Former Wilco keyboard player and guitarist Jay Bennett died in his sleep on Sunday morning at the age of 45. The cause is currently unknown.

Bennett's playing can be heard on all of Wilco's albums from Being There to Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. His departure from the band was documented in the film I Am Trying To Break Your Heart. At the time of his death, Bennett had been working on his fifth solo album titled Kicking at the Perfumed Air. His last album Whatever Happened I Apologize was distributed for free and is still available to download via Rock Proper Netlabel.

Check out David Menconi's post about Bennett's passing which is really well written and very interesting. I honestly know very little about him outside of the contention documented in I Am Trying To Break Your Heart. It's always sad to lose such talented musicians while they're still young.

Read Jeff Tweedy's statement released about Bennett's passing below.

"We are all deeply saddened by this tragedy. We will miss Jay as we remember him -- as a truly unique and gifted human being and one who made welcome and significant contributions to the band's songs and evolution. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends in this very difficult time."