‘An Angelic Presence’: Bruce Springsteen, Bono, Wilco’s Nels Cline Pay Tribute to Glen Hansard
What's happening
Music's biggest names are paying tribute to Glen Hansard, the Irish musician and founder of folk group The Frames, who died Wednesday. Bruce Springsteen, Bono, Wilco's Nels Cline, Finneas, Cat Power, Rachel Zegler, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Warren Ellis are among those remembering him as an influential artist and collaborator.
Who's involved
Glen Hansard was an acclaimed Irish singer-songwriter best known as the frontman of The Frames and for his Oscar-winning song 'Falling Slowly' from the 2007 film 'Once,' which he co-wrote and performed. The tributes come from rock icons, contemporary musicians, and artists across genres who collaborated with or were influenced by Hansard's work.
Why it matters
Hansard's death marks the loss of a significant figure in indie and folk music who influenced multiple generations of artists and won critical acclaim including an Academy Award. His collaborative spirit and songwriting legacy will shape how peers and emerging artists approach music-making and authenticity in the industry.
More context
Hansard gained international recognition through his work with The Frames, an Irish rock band he founded in the 1990s, and achieved broader mainstream success following the 'Once' soundtrack's success. The film's accompanying album became a Grammy-winning phenomenon and showcased his gift for intimate, emotionally resonant songwriting. Beyond his recorded work, Hansard was known for his live performances and willingness to collaborate across musical boundaries with artists from various genres. His death represents a significant loss to the global music community that continues to celebrate his artistic contributions.