Musician Chris Whitley passed away Sunday night. Yesterday there were some reports that he was fighting terminal lung cancer but those came after he had already died. At the message board on his website, Whitley's daughter Trixie and brother Daniel posted messages about his passing. From his daughter:

My father took his last breath last night the 20th of November. I would like to make it clear that the people he needed and loved the most were with him while and when he left in peace.

And from his brother:

"I hope you all will morn my brothers death but more important celebrate his life as Chris was all about life and living... I started the celebration by cranking up Dirt Floor in his honor...crying still. Chris Whitley's legacy will no doubt transcend all time."

Extras:

• Read Whitley's biography at AllMusic.com
• His website currently has three free downloads: "Fire Road" (MP3), "Soft Dangerous Shores" (OGG) and "As Day Is Long" (MP3).
• Whitley's last record, Soft Dangerous Shores, was released on Messenger Records.