The Austin music scene has lost one of its most distinctive voices. Michael Corcoran, known for his sharp wit and incisive music journalism, passed away at age 68. The news of his passing was announced by his son Jack Corcoran on his father's Facebook page this Monday, as reported by KVUE.
Besides writing for well-regarded publications like the Dallas Morning News and Austin American-Statesman, Corcoran also authored several books delving into the Texas music heritage, such as "Ghost Notes: Pioneering Spirits of Texas Music" and "All Over the Map: "True Heroes of Texas Music,". Found deceased in his Buda residence, family members have confirmed an autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death, according to the Statesman.
Well-known for his impact on the music scene, Corcoran grew up in a military family in Hawaii, where he was first exposed to an array of musical traditions, which later influenced his authentic approach to covering the music scene. His work extended beyond the mainstream and shone a spotlight on underrepresented artists and genres, such as the Texas gospel group the Jones Family Singers. "My group obtained much success because your father supported us 100%,” said Fred Jones of the band, as per Austin American Statesman, responding to the post made by Jack Corcoran on Facebook, regarding Corcoran's father's death.
Austin's South by Southwest co-founder Roland Swenson reflected on Corcoran's fearless nature in a statement obtained by the Statesman, "He could be sweet, he could be acidic, and I think that’s why people would laugh when he would say something funny," explaining the duality of Corcoran's character as one of the reasons behind his charm and his propensity to make memorable impressions. Swenson, who became one of Corcoran's close friends, fondly recalled the striking tattoos the journalist wore – a hula dancer and JFK Jr. saluting his father's casket – the latter of which Corcoran penned a memorable story about.
