Kelly Joe Phelps, a renowned singer and guitarist who blended blues, country and jazz in his music, passed away on May 31, 2022 at the age of 62. His death was confirmed by his friend and fellow musician Steve Dawson, who posted a tribute on Phelps’ Facebook page. Dawson said that Phelps died “quietly at home in Iowa” and that his family requested privacy at this time.
A Musical Legacy
Phelps was born in Washington state and grew up in a musical family. He learned to play various instruments, including drums, bass and piano, before settling on guitar. He was initially trained as a jazz musician, but became fascinated by the blues after hearing Mississippi Fred McDowell’s records. He developed a distinctive style of slide guitar playing and a soulful voice that earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
He released his debut album, Lead Me On, in 1994, which showcased his acoustic blues skills and original songs. He followed it with nine more albums, exploring different genres and collaborations. His last album, Brother Sinner and the Whale, was released in 2012 and featured gospel-inspired songs.
Phelps was also a respected songwriter, whose lyrics reflected his spiritual and personal journey. He was featured in the 2011 book I’ll Be Here in the Morning: The Songwriting Legacy of Townes Van Zandt. He also influenced many other musicians, such as Jason Isbell, John Smith and Ray LaMontagne.
A Mysterious Illness
In 2013, Phelps announced that he was taking a hiatus from touring due to ulnar neuropathy in his right hand and arm. This is a condition that causes nerve damage and pain in the arm, especially near the elbow. According to Medline Plus, it is common in patients with diabetes.
Phelps did not reveal much about his illness or treatment, but he assured his fans that he was fine and that his neuropathy issues seemed to have gone away. He wrote on his website and Facebook account in 2016: “Hello everyone, I hope all is well and good for you folks, wherever this note finds you. I’m aware that there has been much curiosity regarding my lengthy absence from the music world. Fortunately, there is nothing to be worried or concerned about. My health is fine, and my hand neuropathy issues seem to have gone away, as well.”
He also hinted that he was working on new music and that he hoped to share it soon. However, he did not release any new material or perform live again after that.
A Shocking Death
Phelps’ death came as a shock to many of his fans and peers, who expressed their sadness and condolences online. Some of them shared their memories of seeing him live or meeting him personally. Others praised his music and talent, calling him a “magical artist”, a “guitarist and shaman” and a “beautiful soul”.
The exact cause of Phelps’ death has not been officially announced yet. It is not clear whether it was related to his nerve disorder or some other health issue. It is also not known whether he died of natural causes or suicide.
What is clear is that Phelps left behind a rich musical legacy that will continue to inspire and touch many people for years to come.
