Remembering Chris Whitley (1960–2005)

Born August 31, 1960 – Died November 20, 2005Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Chris Whitley carved a unique space in American music with his haunting voice and atmospheric slide guitar. His acclaimed debut Living with the Law (1991), produced by Daniel Lanois and Malcolm Burn, introduced unforgettable tracks like “Big Sky Country” and “Poison Girl.”

Whitley’s career defied easy categorization—shifting from the grunge edge of Din of Ecstasy (1995) to the intimate rawness of Dirt Floor (1998), recorded in a Vermont barn. He collaborated with artists including Dave Matthews and Medeski, Martin & Wood, and later settled in Germany, releasing albums such as War Crime Blues (2004) and Dislocation Blues (2005, with Jeff Lang).

Chris Whitley passed away from lung cancer on November 20, 2005, at age 45, leaving behind a body of work that continues to resonate for its intensity, honesty, and fearless exploration.