David Berman, the poet and singer-songwriter behind Silver Jews and Purple Mountains, has died. He was 52 years old. Berman founded Silver Jews in 1989 with Pavement’s Stephen Malkmus and Bob Nastanovich. After several lineup changes and six albums, they disbanded in 2008. Berman released his debut album with Purple Mountains earlier this year. He was set to embark on his first Purple Mountains tour later this week.
Drag City confirmed the news in a tweet: “We couldn’t be more sorry to tell you this. David Berman passed away earlier today. A great friend and one of the most inspiring individuals we’ve ever known is gone. Rest easy, David.” The cause of death is currently unknown. This is a developing story.
We couldn’t be more sorry to tell you this. David Berman passed away earlier today. A great friend and one of the most inspiring individuals we’ve ever known is gone. Rest easy, David. pic.twitter.com/5n5bctcu4j
— (@dragcityrecords) August 7, 2019