Laura Lynch Cause of Death & Obituary: Founding Member of The Chicks, Dies in Car Crash at 65
Laura Lynch, one of the original members of the country music band The Chicks, formerly known as Dixie Chicks, passed away on Thursday, December 23, 2023, at the age of 65. She was involved in a fatal car accident in West Texas, near her hometown of Dell City.
A Pioneer of Country Music
Lynch was born on November 18, 1958, in Dell City, Texas. She grew up listening to country music and learned to play guitar and bass. She joined the Dixie Chicks in 1989, along with Robin Lynn Macy and sisters Martie and Emily Erwin. The band was named after the song “Dixie Chicken” by Little Feat.
The Dixie Chicks started as a bluegrass and country group, performing at local venues and festivals. They made their debut at the Grand Ole Opry in 1991 and performed at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993. They released three independent albums: Thank Heavens for Dale Evans (1990), Little Ol’ Cowgirl (1992), and Shouldn’t a Told You That (1993).
Laura Lynch served as the lead vocalist and played bass and guitar for the band. She was known for her distinctive voice and harmonies, as well as her songwriting skills. She co-wrote several songs for the band, such as “I Can Love You Better”, “You Were Mine”, and “There’s Your Trouble”.
A Change of Direction
In 1995, Lynch left the Dixie Chicks, citing creative differences and personal issues. She was replaced by Natalie Maines, who became the new lead singer. The band changed their musical style and image, adopting a more pop-oriented and controversial approach. They signed with a major label and achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, winning multiple Grammy Awards and selling millions of records.
Laura Lynch pursued a solo career and released her debut album, New Day, in 1997. She also collaborated with other artists, such as Ray Benson, Tom Russell, and Albert Lee. She continued to perform and record music, as well as teach guitar and bass lessons. She remained in touch with her former bandmates and supported their endeavors.
In 2020, the Dixie Chicks changed their name to The Chicks, in response to the Black Lives Matter movement and the negative connotations of the word “Dixie”. They also released their first album in 14 years, Gaslighter, which addressed their personal and political issues. Lynch praised the album and expressed her admiration for the band.
Laura Lynch Obituary & Death Reason
On Thursday, December 23, 2023, Lynch was driving on Highway 62, near Dell City, when she collided with another vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other driver was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
RIP to the beautiful Laura Lynch, founding member of The (Dixie) Chicks.
— RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR (@RenaissanceWT) December 24, 2023
The Chicks became one of the most controversial music groups for taking a stand against Bush and his war. They came under fire again for the infamous CMA Daddy Lessons Performance.pic.twitter.com/cSu4kV0ACv
Laura Lynch is survived by her husband, John, and her two children, Jake and Katie. She also leaves behind her parents, siblings, and extended family, as well as her friends and fans. A memorial service will be held in Dell City, followed by a private burial.
The Chicks issued a statement on their social media accounts, expressing their shock and sadness over Lynch’s death. They said that she was a founding member of the band and a pioneer of country music. They also thanked her for her contributions and legacy, and sent their condolences to her family.
Lynch will be remembered as a talented and influential musician, who helped shape the sound and history of The Chicks. She will be missed by many, who loved and admired her.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Full name | Laura Lynch |
| Date of birth | November 18, 1958 |
| Place of birth | Dell City, Texas |
| Date of death | December 23, 2023 |
| Place of death | Highway 62, near Dell City, Texas |
| Cause of death | Car crash |
| Occupation | Musician, songwriter, teacher |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, bass |
| Years active | 1989-2023 |
| Associated acts | The Chicks, formerly Dixie Chicks |
Trivia And Facts
- Lynch was inducted into the West Texas Music Hall of Fame in 2012, along with the other original members of The Chicks.
- She was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers, and often wore their jerseys and hats during her performances.
- She was an animal lover and had several pets, including dogs, cats, horses, and chickens.
- Laura Lynch was a devout Christian and attended the First Baptist Church of Dell City. She also supported various charitable causes, such as the American Red Cross and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
