Einsten and Alan Cohen Experience Join Big Star Tribute in Spirit

Musicians and fans were saddened upon the news that Alex Chilton of Big Star passed away March 17. The shock hit hard, and especially made an impact at this year's SXSW. Rolling Stone reports Big Star's remaining members Jon Auer, Ken Stringfellow and Jody Stephens were joined by several musicians who wanted to help celebrate Chilton's memory and allow Big Star to still perform a show at Antone’s Night Club. Performances included Curt Kirkwood on "In the Street," M. Ward of She & Him on "Big Black Car," Mike Mills of R.E.M. on "Jesus Christ," and John Doe of X on "I'm In Love with a Girl."

An array of musicians continued to provide musical support in order to honor the legacy of Chilton. Other performers included Sondre Lerche, Chris Stamey, Chuck Prophet, Evan Dando, Amy Speace, Susan Cowsill, and the Watson Twins. Original Big Star member Andy Hummel even traveled all the way from Lithuania in order to show support for his fallen band mate.

Even bands and fans that were not in attendance at SXSW have the memory of Chilton in their minds and hearts. Although they didn't perform at SXSW, Alan Cohen Experience was there in spirit as the new song "Einstein" was even played at Antone’s during the set break before the Big Star tribute.

Although the news of Alex Chilton's passing created heartbreak all throughout Austin, and throughout the music world, his legacy and Big Star's music will certainly continue to live on.

Visit http://www.alancohenexperience.com to download Alan Cohen Exerience's song "Einstein."

Image courtesy of Jack Plunkett, AP