Jack White’s Keyboardist Ikey Owens Passes Away At 38
We are saddened to report that Isaiah “Ikey” Owens, keyboardist for Jack White and formerly of The Mars Volta, has passed away at the age of 38.
Owens was on tour with Jack White in Mexico when he was found in his hotel room earlier today. The cause of death has yet to be determined. Out of respect for Owens, White has cancelled the remainder of his dates in Mexico, with two shows to have been performed in Guadalajara and Monterrey. No word has been released on if and when the remaining shows will be rescheduled for fans.
Owens has been with White’s touring band since 2012’s Blunderbuss world tour, returning to the road this summer to promote the singer’s sophomore album Lazaretto.
Owens has a rich history in the music scene prior to working with Jack White. Born in LA, he previously worked with The Mars Volta as well as releasing several solo LPs under the name Free Moral Agents. Other projects Owens has been a part of include The Aquabats, Mastodon, and Wailing Souls.
Our deepest condolences go out to Owens’ family along with his friends and band mates at Third Man Records.
EDIT: As of October 15, 2014, via an official statement released by Jack White and Third Man Records, the cause of death has been ruled to be a heart attack.
Photo credit: David James Swanson and Third Man Records