Alex Chilton Passes

Songwriter/guitarist/singer/producer Alex Chilton (nee William Alexander Chilton) passed away yesterday from a suspected heart attack. Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1950, he came from a musical family, including his father, who as a jazz musician. Chilton had his first success in the ’60s, at age 16, with pop group the Box Tops and the song “The Letter.” He remained with the group until 1970, then went on to further success with Big Star and an indie/alternative solo music career. Artists ranging from The Bangles to Cheap Trick, Jeff Buckley to Garbage, and Counting Crows to Wilco recorded and performed his songs. The Replacements featured their tribute song, “Alex Chilton,” on their album Pleased To Meet Me (1987). He continued recording and performing solo and with various groups, including the reunited Box Tops and with a new version of Big Star, until the time of his passing. Our condolences to his family and friends.