Jay Bennett, best known as the former guitarist / multi-instrumentalist of Wilco died Sunday at the age of 45. It was only three weeks ago that Bennett filed suit against his former bandmates over past royalties, and sadly, it will likely be his well documented disputes with Wilco and frontman Jeff Tweedy that he will be remembered for. Jay Bennett was an incredibly talented musician that deserved more than he received. His departure from the band during the recording of Yankee Hotel Foxtrot was documented in the film, I’m Trying to Break Your Heart. Bennett played an integral role in the evolution and national breakthrough of Wilco. His contributions to Being There, Summerteeth, and Yankee Hotel Foxtrot were crucial to those albums success.

Bennett passed away in his sleep while at his home in Urbana, IL. An autopsy was performed and pending a toxicology report the cause of death was deemed inconclusive.

Jay Bennett you will be missed. Our regrets that you never got the credit you deserved.