Leon Redbone has died at age 69.

[EmergencyIan]

Leon Redbone was born on August 26, 1949 and died on May 30, 2019. He was 69 years old.

Here is the official, albeit whimsical statement that was released by his family (Leon is thought to have written it in advance):

"It is with heavy hearts we announce that early this morning, May 30th, 2019, Leon Redbone crossed the delta for that beautiful shore at the age of 127,” it read. “He departed our world with his guitar, his trusty companion Rover, and a simple tip of his hat. He’s interested to see what Blind Blake, Emmett, and Jelly Roll have been up to in his absence, and has plans for a rousing sing along number with Sári Barabás. An eternity of pouring through texts in the Library of Ashurbanipal will be a welcome repose, perhaps followed by a shot or two of whiskey with Lee Morse, and some long overdue discussions with his favorite Uncle, Suppiluliuma I of the Hittites. To his fans, friends, and loving family who have already been missing him so in this realm he says, ‘Oh behave yourselves. Thank you…. and good evening everybody.'”

Article from VARIETY on his life and passing:

https://variety.com/2019/music/news/singer-leon-redbone-dies-at-69-1203229012/

Please Dont' Talk About Me When I'm Gone

- Ian

[Wee67]

I didn't really come across Redbone's music until the 80's. There was a small pathway running between a cinder block wall and the small backyard behind our rowhome on 44th St in West Philly. The house had long ago been split into apartments, my bedroom complete with an old balcony being at the rear of the second floor. I would crack the windows in the rear of the first floor and put Leon Redbone on the stereo down there. Heading back up to the balcony, I'd sit and read, enjoying 'Champagne Charlie' echoing off the walls. It was almost like I was hearing it from a nearby club.

[EmergencyIan]

I didn't really come across Redbone's music until the 80's. There was a small pathway running between a cinder block wall and the small backyard behind our rowhome on 44th St in West Philly. The house had long ago been split into apartments, my bedroom complete with an old balcony being at the rear of the second floor. I would crack the windows in the rear of the first floor and put Leon Redbone on the stereo down there. Heading back up to the balcony, I'd sit and read, enjoying 'Champagne Charlie' echoing off the walls. It was almost like I was hearing it from a nearby club.

Great story, Bill!

Coincidentally, Leon died in Bucks County. So, I’m supposing that he was a resident of Pennsylvania.

- Ian

[Earth 2 Chris]

Sad to hear it. I can't say I'm overly familiar with his music, but what I know of, I like. And I liked his "character". We don't have enough entertainers like that anymore.

His wonderful part in ELF no doubt brought him a lot of fans, even if they may not completely make the connection between Leon the Snowman and the real deal.

RIP.

Chris

[Mikey]

……..

Coincidentally, Leon died in Bucks County. So, I’m supposing that he was a resident of Pennsylvania.

- Ian

He lived in New Hope, PA … Beautiful small town filled with collectible shops, bistros and a live playhouse … North of Philly around Washington's Crossing on the Delaware

First time I heard him was on SNL in the 70's … To be honest, At first I thought he was a comedian singing in a funny voice.

RIP

[PNGwynne]

Oh, I"m sad to hear of this, I admired his musical style long before I saw him perform. Redbone was a staple on various NPR programming, Including our local Folk Alley show from WKSU. I had no idea of his age. RIP sir.

Thanks for the post, Ian.

[knight errant00]

First time I heard him was on SNL in the 70's … To be honest, At first I thought he was a comedian singing in a funny voice.

Me too! I thought for sure he was Dan Ackroyd in disguise, in fact, until I saw them both together.