The world of American roots music is in mourning following the death of the revered singer-songwriter Todd Snider at the age of 59. A uniquely gifted storyteller, Snider was celebrated for his thoughtfully freewheeling tunes and cosmic-stoner songwriting that made him a beloved figure.
A Life in Music Cut Short
His record label confirmed the sad news on Saturday, 15th November 2025, via a statement posted to his social media accounts, announcing that Snider had passed away the previous day. The statement poignantly asked, "Where do we find the words for the one who always had the right words?", praising his ability to deliver "devastating, hilarious, and impactful" phrases through his songwriting.
The artist's health had been in decline. His family and friends revealed in a statement on Friday that he had been diagnosed with pneumonia at a hospital in Hendersonville, Tennessee. His condition grew more complex, necessitating a transfer to another facility. This diagnosis came shortly after the cancellation of his tour, which was itself a consequence of a violent assault Snider suffered in the Salt Lake City area, as detailed in a 3rd November statement from his management.
A Complex Final Chapter
In a troubling twist, Salt Lake City police later arrested Snider after he initially refused to leave a hospital and subsequently returned to threaten staff members, according to reports from the Salt Lake Tribune. The tour that was cancelled was in support of his most recent album, "High, Lonesome and Then Some," which had been released in October.
Across a three-decade career, Snider masterfully blended elements of folk, rock, and country. The Associated Press aptly described him as a "singer-songwriter with the persona of a fried folkie" and a "stoner troubadour and cosmic comic." He looked up to and was mentored by legends such as Kris Kristofferson, Guy Clark, and John Prine. His songs were recorded by an array of artists including Jerry Jeff Walker, Billy Joe Shaver, and even Tom Jones. He also co-wrote a song with the late Loretta Lynn for her 2016 album, "Full Circle."
A Legacy of Songwriting Greatness
His label's statement on Saturday celebrated his relentless work ethic, noting he "got up every morning and started writing," always striving to find his place among the songwriting giants he so admired.
Snider's most acclaimed work was produced for John Prine's independent label, Oh Boy, in the early 2000s. This prolific period included albums like "New Connection," "Near Truths and Hotel Rooms," and the 2004 collection "East Nashville Skyline," which many consider his finest work. These records yielded his best-known songs, including "I Can't Complain," "Beer Run," and "Alright Guy."
Born and raised in Oregon, Snider honed his craft in San Marcos, Texas, before making his way to Nashville. He became such a fixture there that he was dubbed the unofficial "mayor of East Nashville." An early champion was Jimmy Buffett, who signed the young artist to his Margaritaville label, which released Snider's first two albums: "Songs for the Daily Planet" in 1994 and "Step Right Up" in 1996. The music world has lost a singular voice whose unique lens on the world will be deeply missed.
