A beloved country music star has died at the age of just 36. Anthony Enriquez, the gifted guitarist and songwriter for the duo Shotgun Rider, passed away, leaving fans and fellow musicians heartbroken.
A Musical Journey
Enriquez co-founded Shotgun Rider in 2012 with vocalist and guitarist Logan Stamford. The duo released their debut EP in 2015 and their full album Palo Duro in 2018. They were signed with Texas Music/Red Dirt booking agency Red 11, which later became part of WME.
In 2019, the duo announced their separation in a heartfelt message to fans: 'Thank you for giving us four years of incredible memories. For letting us chase our dream, we will never be able to thank you enough for your support. We have decided our time together as Shotgun Rider has come to an end. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for this incredible chapter in our lives.'
Enriquez continued to work as a songwriter and guitarist until around 2022.
Tributes and Legacy
A Texas funeral home confirmed his death on June 10, sharing a touching tribute: 'Anthony was a gifted guitar player and talented songwriter whose passion for music touched countless lives. Many knew and loved him as one half of the Texas country duo Shotgun Rider, but his influence reached far beyond the stage and those celebrated years.'
'As a solo artist, creative songwriter, and steadfast supporter of fellow musicians, Anthony generously shared his talent, encouragement, and love for music with everyone around him. Through his songs, he connected with people on a deeply personal level, providing the soundtrack to cherished moments, lasting friendships, and treasured memories.'
'His music will continue to live on in the hearts of those who listened, and his legacy will be carried forward through the lives he touched and the inspiration he gave to others.'
His cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Tributes have flooded in from fans and friends. One person wrote: 'My road brother Anthony Enriquez has joined many of our road brothers and sister in heaven. Most importantly he has joined his father. Those boys had faith in me and gave me the opportunities to really hone in my craft.'
Another added: 'I really fell in love with the road and music, let alone gained some of the best friends, running around with Anthony and the boys. Gonna miss our long phone calls, and especially your laugh. Rest easy man, and put on one hell of a show up there!'
