In Memoriam: Chris Ethridge

Bassist Chris Ethridge, a founding member of Flying Burrito Brothers with Gram Parsons, has passed away at the age of 65 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. The genre-shaping band he co-created helped bring country and rock together.

Ethridge left the band after recording their debut album The Gilded Palace of Sin, going on to work as a bassist for hire. His credits include recordings and performances with legends like Ry Cooder, Graham Nash, David Crosby, Grace Slick, The Doors and Willie Nelson’s Family Band. Nelson announced the news of Ethridge’s death in a tweet.

“WN&F are sad to hear of the passing of Family member & friend Chris Ethridge,” Nelson wrote. “He was a talented musician & we were honored to call him Family.”

Our condolences to the family and friends of Chris Ethridge.