History of Jeff Austin in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 31, 2024

Jeff Austin (1974-2019) was a prominent American mandolin player and vocalist, widely recognized as a founding member of the progressive bluegrass band Yonder Mountain String Band. Formed in 1998 in Nederland, Colorado, the band quickly gained popularity for their high-energy live performances and innovative approach to traditional bluegrass music, incorporating elements of rock and roll and improvisation. Austin's distinctive mandolin style and passionate vocals were central to the band's sound, contributing to their success and influencing a new generation of bluegrass musicians. After leaving Yonder Mountain String Band in 2014, Austin pursued a solo career, continuing to perform and record music until his untimely death in 2019.

April 25, 1974: Birth of Jeff Austin

Jeff Austin was born on April 25, 1974 in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

1998: Formation of Yonder Mountain String Band

In 1998, Jeff Austin co-founded the Yonder Mountain String Band (YMSB) with Dave Johnston, Adam Aijala, and Ben Kaufmann after meeting in Nederland, Colorado.

March 2004: Release of "Songs from the Tin Shed"

In March 2004, Jeff Austin and Chris Castino released a collaborative album titled "Songs from the Tin Shed", a collection of cowboy music featuring guest appearances by several other musicians.

February 2006: Release of "Rex (Live at the Fillmore)"

In February 2006, Jeff Austin, Keller Williams, and Keith Moseley released a live album called "Rex (Live at the Fillmore)" under the name Grateful Grass, featuring Grateful Dead covers with proceeds donated to the Rex Foundation.

May 11, 2010: Release of "One Man Show" by 30db

On May 11, 2010, 30db, a collaboration between Jeff Austin and Brendan Bayliss, released their album "One Man Show".

May 2010: 30db Tour

In May 2010, 30db embarked on a seven-show tour to support the release of their album "One Man Show".

2013: Jeff Austin's Leave of Absence from YMSB

In late 2013, Jeff Austin announced his leave of absence from Yonder Mountain String Band due to the impending birth of his daughter.

2013: Theme Music for "I Know That Voice"

Jeff Austin composed the theme music and closing credits for the 2013 documentary "I Know That Voice".

April 23, 2014: Departure from Yonder Mountain String Band

On April 23, 2014, Yonder Mountain String Band announced an amicable split with Jeff Austin, citing creative differences and conflicting career goals.

2014: Formation of Jeff Austin Band

Jeff Austin formed his own band, the Jeff Austin Band, in 2014. The band continued with various lineups until his death.

February 10, 2015: Release of "The Simple Truth"

Jeff Austin released his debut solo album, "The Simple Truth", on February 10, 2015, on Yep Roc Records. The album featured collaborations with several artists, including Cody Dickinson, the Royal Horns, and members of the Jeff Austin Band.