Chris Austin joined the 27 club on March 16, 1991. The cause of death is recorded as: Plane crash
Chris Austin was a talented country music singer and multi-instrumentalist, best known for his expertise in playing guitar and fiddle for Reba McEntire's and Ricky Skaggs' road bands. Born on February 24, 1964, Austin started his musical career in earnest when he was signed to Warner Bros. Records in 1988. During his time with the label, he charted three singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, with his highest-charting single being "Blues Stay Away from Me." This track also appeared on the compilation album New Tradition Sings the Old Tradition.
Before his musical career took off, Austin was a well-respected guitarist and fiddle player, supporting notable artists like McEntire and Skaggs on tour. His skills as a session musician were integral to their live performances, and he proved himself an invaluable member of their bands. Unfortunately, Austin's life was cut short when an airplane carrying him, six other members of McEntire's band, and her road manager crashed into a nearby mountain after taking off from San Diego Airport on March 16, 1991, claiming all their lives.
Although his musical career may have been brief, Austin left a lasting impact on the country music scene. Aside from his own charting singles, he co-wrote Ricky Skaggs' 1991 single "Same Ol' Love." The legacy of Chris Austin extends beyond his own accomplishments, as his work laid the foundation for his career as a sought-after session musician and collaborator. His tragic death at an early age came as a shock to the music community, leaving fans with a sense of loss but also inspiring admiration for the brief yet impactful career he had.
The story of Chris Austin's life is one of dedication, ambition, and tragedy. Born and raised in southern Ontario, he became enamored with flying at a young age and dreamed of becoming an astronaut after watching the Apollo 11 Moon landing on television. However, his musical talent eventually took precedence over his astronaut aspirations, leading him to become a respected session musician before launching a career as a solo artist. Despite the untimely end to his life and career, Austin's contributions to country music continue to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.
Chris Austin's musical journey is one of passion, perseverance, and artistry. He dedicated himself to honing his skills as a guitarist, fiddle player, and singer, eventually earning the opportunity to perform with some of the biggest names in country music. His tragic death at an early age left the music community mourning the loss of a talented artist, but his legacy continues to live on through his recorded works and the influence he had on other musicians in the industry.