Tucker Zimmerman, a revered figure in folk music, tragically passed away on Saturday at the age of 84 due to a house fire in Saint-Georges-sur-Meuse, Belgium. His wife, Marie-Claire Lambert, also lost her life in the fire, as reported by multiple sources, including Parade Magazine.
Zimmerman’s career as a musician was marked by a profound contribution to the folk genre, with his first album, “Ten Songs,” released in 1968. This album earned acclaim from influential artist David Bowie, who cited it as one of his all-time favorites. In 2003, Bowie spoke highly of Zimmerman’s qualifications and unique talent, stating, “The guy’s way too qualified for folk, in my opinion,” and expressing that Zimmerman’s work should not be underestimated.
Throughout his career, Zimmerman released a total of 16 albums, showcasing his evolution as an artist. His latest work, “Music by River Words by Ear,” is set to be released in 2025. Notably, he experienced a hiatus from music between his 1983 album “Word Games” and the 2003 release “Walking on the Edge of the Blues” with the Nightshift Trio.
His 2024 album, “Dance of Love,” was highlighted by Parade Magazine as one of his “most compelling late-career chapters.” This project featured a collaboration with the folk group Big Thief, who paid tribute to Zimmerman in a heartfelt post after his passing. They expressed their honor in working alongside him and hope that his music will continue to bring joy to listeners.
Social media was flooded with tributes from fans and contemporaries. Tomas del Real remarked on the sudden loss, reflecting on Zimmerman’s remarkable songwriting journey from his early work to his most recent collaborations, including those with Andrianne Lenker and Big Thief.
Zimmerman’s legacy is characterized by a rich and diverse body of work that has resonated across generations and styles, ensuring his place in the pantheon of great songwriters. As the music community mourns his passing, his influence and artistry will undoubtedly live on through his songs.