Dave Sirmon, the bass guitarist for country music star Mark Chesnutt, has died suddenly while on tour. Sirmon passed away in his sleep on the tour bus last weekend, according to his wife Louise. He was a beloved member of Chesnutt's touring band and had been with the lineup since 2024.
Tribute from Mark Chesnutt
An emotional Mark Chesnutt posted a heartfelt tribute to his colleague and friend on social media. 'I lost my buddy Dave Sirmon Saturday night while on the road,' Chesnutt wrote. 'Dave played bass guitar in my band. He was a great musician and friend. He was such a hard worker and very hands-on with everything on the road. He was somebody I could really depend on not only for playing music but for every aspect of the road. Advice, music, songs, the bus. Everything.'
Chesnutt continued: 'He was quiet but so funny with a great sense of humour. He was the perfect country gentleman and an amazing man. One of the most positive people I’ve ever known. I never heard him complain one time. When you saw Dave, you saw light and would immediately smile. That was Dave. He will always ride with us in spirit and in heart. We will miss you, brother. -MC.'
Wife Confirms Passing
Dave’s wife Louise confirmed that her husband 'did pass away in his sleep on the tour bus,' adding: 'I will share memorial plans when they are in place, but they will likely not be for a few weeks.' No cause of death has been given.
Sirmon originally joined the band’s line-up in 2024 after working as a recording engineer and running his own radio station. His sudden death comes as Chesnutt and his band are currently touring in the US, with upcoming dates in Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois later this month.
Chesnutt's Own Health Struggles
The tragedy follows health problems Chesnutt faced last year. He was rushed to hospital just moments before he was set to go on stage in Louisiana. His band went ahead with the show without him, and Chesnutt underwent tests for 'low sodium count and extreme high blood pressure.'
