Dixie Chicks’ luminary Laura Lynch tragically loses life in car accident; band expresses profound shock and offers tribute

 

Dixie Chicks co-founder Laura Lynch has passed away at the age of 65 following a fatal car crash in Texas. The revered band member, instrumental in the group’s inception, lost her life in a head-on collision outside El Paso on Friday.

The tragic incident occurred as Lynch was travelling east on Highway 62 from El Paso to Dell City. According to reports from law enforcement, she became involved in the collision when another vehicle travelling west attempted to overtake a car in a two-way section of the highway.

The sombre news was confirmed to TMZ by her cousin Mick Lynch.

Tragically, Laura was struck by a car attempting to pass hers, resulting in her untimely death at the scene. The other driver involved sustained non-life threatening injuries and was taken to the hospital.

In response, The Chicks released a statement expressing deep shock and sorrow at the loss of Laura Lynch, a founding member of the band. They highlighted the cherished moments spent making music, sharing laughter, and travelling together. Describing Laura as a radiant presence, they praised her infectious energy, humour, and significant contribution to the band’s early days.

Acknowledging her talents in design, her love for all things Texan, and her pivotal role in the band’s initial success, The Chicks remembered Laura fondly.

“Her exceptional abilities propelled us from street performances to stages across Texas and the mid-West.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and loved ones during this sorrowful time. – Emily, Martie & Natalie.”

Lynch initially played upright bass in the original lineup alongside Martie Maguire, Emily Strayer, and Robin Lynn Macy in 1989. However, she transitioned to lead vocals before departing the band in 1995.

Throughout their career, they released ‘Thank Heavens for Dale Evans’ in 1990 and ‘Little Ol’ Cowgirl’ in 1992, culminating in their final album ‘Shouldn’t a Told You That’ in 1993.

However, the band found success in the late 1990s, notably with albums like Wide Open Spaces and Fly, both achieving considerable acclaim even after Lynch’s departure, leading to a total sale of 33 million records.

Their accolades included 13 Grammy wins, with an impressive five for Taking the Long Way in 2007. Notably, in 2020, they were recognised as the top-selling all-female band and leading country group in the US since 1991.

In 2020, amidst racial justice protests following George Floyd’s tragic death, the current lineup of the band opted to rename themselves as The Chicks.

Laura is survived by her partner, Mac Tull, and their daughter.