Joe Ely

Joe Ely
Ely in 2017
Background information
Born(1947-02-09)February 9, 1947
OriginLubbock, Texas, U.S.
DiedDecember 15, 2025(2025-12-15) (aged 78)
Genres
Occupations
  • Singer-songwriter
  • musician
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • guitar
Years active1970–2025
Labels
Websiteely.com

Joe Ely (/ˈli/; February 9, 1947 – December 15, 2025) was an American singer, songwriter and guitarist. He was "one of the main movers" of Austin, Texas's progressive country scene in the 1970s and 1980s.

Ely had a genre-crossing career, performing with Bruce Springsteen, Uncle Tupelo, Los Super Seven, The Chieftains, James McMurtry, The Clash, Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, and Guy Clark.