In Memoriam: Dan “Bee” Spears, Willie Nelson’s Longtime Bassist

Dan 'Bee' Spears

We’re sad to report the passing of Dan “Bee” Spears, the longtime bassist for Willie Nelson’s Family Band. Spears performed with Nelson on albums including Stardust, The Troublemaker, Shotgun Willie, Red Headed Stranger and others. The Austin American-Statesman reported that Spears fell as he exited his motor home, and died due to exposure. He was 62.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of Family member Dan “Bee” Spears, longtime friend and bassist for Willie Nelson and Family,” Nelson said, via an announcement on his website.

Spears joined Nelson in the late 1960’s and performed with the group for the decades that followed. Nelson and his band were scheduled to perform on December 30th and 31st as part of an Austin City Limits performance.

Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Dan Spears, and to the members of Willie Nelson’s Family Band.

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