Producerobit: Joe Gracey

Joe Gracey, a massively influential figure in Austin's music scene (and beyond) has died.

Gracey took a hand at most parts in the great musical dance during a forty year career; more-or-less inventing progressive country as a genre during his time as a DJ in the 70s; writing, producing and playing bass for bands (including his wife's, Kimmie Dawson). He also co-ordinated the talent for the very first Austin City Limits.

Joe Gracey, who was 61, had fought cancer more than once - an operation in 1977 had left him unable to talk; the Austin Statesman reports that it was cancer which took his life.