Luke Bell, a rising country artist who was only 32 years old, died after reportedly going missing for more than a week. According to Saving Country Music, Bell’s friend and fellow country star Matt Kinman confirmed the “tragic” news.
Bell was born in Kentucky and raised in Wyoming, according to the Tucson Police Department. He was found dead yesterday near where he had been reported missing on Aug. 20. The singer’s cause of death remains “unknown,” per authorities currently probing the tragedy; however, Kinman told music blog the Boot that his buddy had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, adding that a recent change in his medication might have contributed to his disappearance.
Bell was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on January 27, 1990, and grew up in Cody, Wyoming. He dropped out of the University of Wyoming and relocated to Austin, Texas , to pursue a career in country music. Bell performed at bars and honky-tonks all across the Lone Star State’s capital before moving to New Orleans for a brief period. He then moved to Wyoming before ending up in Nashville.
The honey-throated nomad finally got his big break after getting signed by Thirty Tigers in 2016. Bell released his eponymous album later that year, which gave him nationwide recognition.
The country star quickly made a name for himself by collaborating with Alabama Shakes, Margo Price and Langhorne Slim. He’s even played opening slots for Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakam and other well-known country artists.
“To be honest, I live in the day, and I count smiles,” Bell said in 2016. “That’s it. Listen, half the time, I end up drinking beer with my neighbors. Life’s not that bad.”
Bell’s death leaves a legacy as one of the most “real” country artists in recent memory, with songs that capture a bygone era. The singer’s distinct sound and flair earned him comparisons to the late, great Waylon Jennings, who fostered the Outlaw Movement in country music.
In a music industry filled with copycat songs, Bell was considered by many to be a true original.
Fans and friends were devastated by the singer’s death.
“Man…Luke Bell…what the f–k,” wrote fellow country star Joshua Hedley on Twitter. “RIP to a real one. Been a long time since I saw him and I was just talking about him the other day wondering what he’s been up to. Truly a sad night for country music.”
In the meantime, Mike and the Moonpies wrote a moving tribute on Facebook.
“Word just came down on the passing of Luke Bell and we’re heartbroken over the news,” they wrote. “I can vividly remember the first time I met Luke at Hole in the Wall over a decade ago, down to the clothes on his back.”
They added, “The man (and his music) left an impression. He was a real deal traveling troubadour out there on that lost highway. Do yourself a favor and put on some Luke Bell tunes tonight in his memory. Rest In Peace, friend.”
