Fans of cult American songwriter Jeff Hanson have been left shocked after new that the singer has been found dead in his apartment in Minneapolis-St. Paul.
Jeff Hanson was born in Milwaukee and began learning music at an early age. By his early teens the songwriter had formed the group M.I.J., learning the ropes and playing venues there wouldn’t be legally allowed to drink in.
Released their first album seven years after forming, the group then disintegrated leaving Jeff Hanson to embark on a solo career. Drawn to the innovative releases stemming from Olympia, the singer sent a demo tape to the label Kill Rock Stars and became the first artist to be signed to the imprint after sending in material unsolicited.
Well regarded for his gifted songwriting skills, Jeff Hanson’s most potent musical weapon was his high, keening voice. Capable of reach other-worldly levels, Hanson’s live shows were known for their potent emotional outpourings.
Jeff Hanson released three albums for Kill Rock Stars, including last year’s ‘Madam Owl’. The Minneapolis-St. Paul Star-Tribune reports that the singer was found dead in his home on Friday (June 5th).
The newspaper reports that the singer “likely died from a fall or other accident”. He was 31 years old.
Kill Rock Stars issued the following statement on Saturday (June 6th).
“We are deeply shocked and saddened to report that Kill Rock Stars artist Jeff Hanson passed away on June 5, 2009 in his home, a victim of a terrible accident. Jeff has been a part of the KRS family since 2003 when he became the first artist signed to the label from an unsolicited demo.”
“Jeff Hanson was an amazing artist, a riotously funny person, and a good friend. Everyone at Kill Rock Stars feels that we were privileged to put out his records. We will miss him tremendously. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
