Earl JJ Pionke, owner of Earl of Old Town folk club, has passed away. He was 80 years old, and had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Earl was known for his dedication to the music he loved, and was adamant in the belief that folk music can be both a passion and a business.

The famed club, Earl of Old Town, was located on the north side of Chicago and played a large role in lifting burgeoning singer-songwriters into prominence (John Prine, Steve Goodman, Bonnie Koloc, Bryan Bowers, just to name a few). It shut its doors over 30 years ago, but it’s notoriety and influence resonates to this day.

“To Earl, it was not about him and it was not about the performers; it was all about the audience. And he believed the music deserved that, too. A tough, lovely man; it was a privilege to know him, an even greater privilege to work for him.” said Scott Alarik (a regular Sing Out! contributor, and a performer who had played The Earl a number of times).

According to his son Joe, Pionke passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.

— SO! Editorial Staff