MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis garage-punk artist Jimmie Lee Lindsey, better known as Jay Reatard, was found dead early Wednesday at his Memphis home, his record label confirmed. He was 29.
Police told The Commercial Appeal that Reatard’s body was discovered around 3:30 a.m. Authorities have since opened a death investigation, but did not provide any additional details.
“We are devastated by the death of Jimmy Lee Lindsey Jr., aka Jay Reatard,” his label, Matador Records, said in a statement. “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.”
The rocker, known for his wild stage presence, first caught the eye of Memphis label Goner Records, who signed him at age 15.
“It is with great sadness that we report the passing of our good friend Jay Reatard,” Goner said in a statement. “Jay died in his sleep last night. We will pass along information about funeral arrangements when they are made public.”
American Superstar sends its condolences to Jay Reatard’s many friends and family.
Watch the video for “It Ain’t Gonna Save Me” off Jay Reatard’s most recent album, Watch Me Fall, released last August.
[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dG65eqfg6bc&feature=related]
Photo: Reuben Cox
