Justin Cary, bassist for Sixpence None the Richer, has died at 50 following a stroke. Bandmate Leigh Nash announced the death on Instagram, where she also shared a GoFundMe page initially created to support Cary's recovery. Cary's wife Linda confirmed his passing the following day.
Cary anchored the rhythm section of the Texas alt-pop outfit that rose to prominence in the 1990s with their infectious indie-pop sensibility. The band achieved mainstream breakthrough with their 1997 single "Kiss Me," which became ubiquitous on radio and in teen movies throughout the late 1990s. Their self-titled debut album showcased Cary's steady bass work beneath vocalist Nash's ethereal vocals and the band's jangly guitar arrangements.
Sixpence None the Richer disbanded in 2002 but reunited in 2011, allowing Cary to continue performing with the group through subsequent tours and recordings. The bassist's contributions proved essential to the band's signature sound, providing melodic bass lines that complemented rather than dominated the group's overall aesthetic.
The alt-pop landscape of the 1990s produced relatively few bands who achieved Sixpence's blend of commercial success and critical respect. Their catalog has endured in popular culture, with "Kiss Me" experiencing periodic resurgences on streaming platforms and in film and television placements. Cary's membership in the band spanned most of their existence, making him integral to their identity across multiple eras.
The news of Cary's sudden death reflects the fragility underlying the music industry's public celebrations. Musicians often contend with health challenges away from the spotlight, their personal struggles remaining invisible to fans who know them primarily through recorded work and live performances.