In Memoriam: Laura Lynch

Sad news to report today as Laura Lynch, bassist and founder of The Chicks (formerly the The Dixie Chicks), died in a car crash in Texas. She was 65 years old.

The news was shared by the band, now known as The Chicks, via Facebook.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Chicks,” they wrote. “We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and traveling together. Laura was a bright light…her infectious energy and humor gave a spark to the early days of our band. Laura had a gift for design, a love of all things Texas and was instrumental in the early success of the band. Her undeniable talents helped propel us beyond busking on street corners to stages all across Texas and the mid-West. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this sad time.”

Lynch grew up on her grandfather’s ranch in Texas. She founded the Chicks with Robin Lynn Macy, Emily Strayer, and Martie Maguire in 1988 and played on three albums: 1990’s Thank Heavens for Dale Evans, 1992’s Little Ol’ Gowgirl, and 1993’s Shouldn’t a Told You That.

She was instrumental in the band’s more traditional blend of country and bluegrass. Lynch was dismissed from the band in 1995 just before the group gained a more contemporary pop sound. Although they gained mainstream success after her departure, Lynch said she had no regrets in leaving the band. After leaving the Chicks, she became a public relations officer for the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. She also took up oil painting and had time to raise her daughter.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Laura Lunch.