Eclectic singer-songwriter Jason Molina, best known as the centerpiece and creator of the Songs:Ohia and as the leader of Magnolia Electric Co., died this past Saturday, March 16th at his home in Indianapolis at the age of 39.

Jason Molina was born in Lorain, Ohio on December 16th, 1973. Starting off his musical career as a Cleveland-based heavy metal bassist, he experimented with various musical groups before embarking on his solo career. In 1996 he joined the newly formed Secretly Canadian label, of which he went on to become the “cornerstone.” Over the span of his musical career Molina released 19 total albums as a solo artist, as a collaborator, and as a part of his other ensembles. His style ranged from alternative country to low fidelity to heart-wrenching blues. Beginning in 1997 he toured the world with Songs:Ohia and later Magnolia Electric Co. until stopping in 2009 to deal with “severe alcoholism,” according to his record label.  Secretly Canadian has asked fans to contribute to Jason Molina’s medical fund as a memorial gift via Pay Pal.

-Cristiano Lima