The Chicks Mourn Death Of Co-Founder Laura Lynch

(Left) The Chicks / Instagram / (Right) John Shearer / Staff / Getty Images

Laura Lynch, Co-Founder & Former Member Of The Group Now Known As The Chicks, Has Died

The Chicks are mourning the death of their co-founder and former member, Laura Lynch.

Lynch was a singer and musician who helped found the group, previously known as The Dixie Chicks, in 1989. Her fellow co-founders were Martie (Erwin) Maguire, Emily (Erwin) Strayer, and Robin Lynn Macy.

Macy was the lead vocalist, Lynch played upright bass, Maguire played fiddle, and Strayer played banjo. The group started primarily as a bluegrass band, and toured the festival circuit in Texas for six years.

Macy left The Chicks in 1992. Lynch became the lead vocalist following Macy’s departure.

The Chicks recorded three albums between the years of 1990-1993 before they eventually shifted to singing country music. Natalie Maines replaced Lynch as the lead vocalist in 1995.

Today, Maines, Maguire, and Strayer all remain in the band.

Laura Lynch Was Killed In A Car Accident At The Age Of 65

There’s no denying how influential Lynch was in The Chicks’ formation and history. So the trio was understandably devastated when news broke that Lynch was killed in a car accident on December 22.

Sgt. Eliot Torres of the Texas Department of Public Safety told USA TODAY that 65-year-old Lynch:

“…was killed instantly in a head-on collision Friday (December 22) by an oncoming car attempting to pass another on an undivided highway near El Paso.”

The driver of the other vehicle was transported to the hospital, and had non-life threatening injuries. Officials said an investigation into the accident is ongoing.

The Chicks Release Statement About Laura Lynch’s Death

Following Lynch’s death, The Chicks released a statement on social media to express their grief. They wrote:

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Chicks. We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and traveling together. Laura was a bright light…her infectious energy and humor gave a spark to the early days of our band.  Laura had a gift for design, a love of all things Texas and was instrumental in the early success of the band. Her undeniable talents helped propel us beyond busking on street corners to stages all across Texas and the mid-West.”

You can see The Chicks’ statement below. Their post includes an old video of Lynch performing with the group, showcasing just how talented she was.

Our hearts go out to Lynch’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May she rest in peace.