Dave Lamb of the Providence, RI-based duo Brown Bird passed away this past weekend. The circumstances are heart-wrenching. Lamb fell ill with mysterious symptoms while touring Texas last year. In a tale that is all too familiar, Lamb had no insurance. Fortunately, he was able to get home and secure insurance for what became a year-long battle with leukemia.
Lamb was a fighter to the end, persevering through chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. He kept an optimistic attitude and continued to write as he counted down the days until he could return to the road with his wife and musical partner MorganEve Swain.
When all seemed hopeful, the situation suddenly changed as his leukemia returned with a vengeance. Within a week he was taken from us.
The outpouring of support that Lamb received during his battle and upon news of his passing is a true testament to the man and the musician. His appearance was somewhat intimidating yet he was, by all accounts, a gentle giant. His music, while seemingly dark, was rich in texture and vibrant storytelling.
Rest in peace, Dave. You’ll be sorely missed.
Here’s a song that Lamb wrote during — and about — his battle. Below is a video from Brown Bird’s appearance at the legendary Newport Folk Festival in 2012.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.