Justin Cary, longtime bassist for alternative rock band Sixpence None the Richer, died on June 18, 2026, after suffering a stroke. He was 50 years old.
The musician had been receiving care at Albany Medical Center in New York, where he underwent two surgeries following what a GoFundMe page described as a serious stroke suffered in mid-June 2026. He remained in the intensive care unit before his death.
Bandmates Share Their Grief
Lead singer Leigh Nash and guitarist Matt Slocum, co-founder of Sixpence None the Richer, both issued statements mourning the loss of their bandmate of 30 years. Nash took to Instagram on June 18 to honor her late bandmate, saying that calling their time together “a great time” was an understatement. She thanked Cary and said the band would love him forever, asking fans to keep his wife, Linda, close in their hearts.
Slocum said on June 19 that the band was completely heartbroken and that the depth of their grief reflected the depth of their love for Cary, whom he called their bandmate, brother-in-arms, and friend for three decades. He ended his statement with “Cheers amigo, see you on the other side.”
His passing sent shockwaves through the music community, with an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, and bandmates.
A Career Defined by Dedication
Cary became part of Sixpence None the Richer in 1997, joining at a pivotal moment for the band. The group released its self-titled album that same year, featuring the massive hit “Kiss Me.” Though his predecessor recorded the track, Cary would perform it nightly for nearly three decades. The song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the band a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
The band charmed audiences worldwide with additional standout tracks, including covers of “There She Goes” and “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” each building a devoted following. His bass work anchored that success both on stage and in studio recordings throughout his tenure with the group.
A Versatile Musician Beyond the Band
His musical reach extended far beyond Sixpence None the Richer. Cary collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including Counting Crows and Lee Brice. His adaptability allowed him to navigate comfortably between alternative rock, country, and pop settings, demonstrating remarkable range.
Fellow musicians consistently remembered him as both a gifted player and a warm, reliable presence. Tributes poured in recognizing not only his talent but the lasting impression he left on those around him, reflecting a career built on dedication rather than seeking attention.
His legacy remains one of quiet but enduring impact — a musician who avoided the spotlight for himself yet contributed to some of the most memorable recordings of the past 30 years. From “Kiss Me” to sessions with artists across genres, he gave generously of his talent and earned universal respect from collaborators.
In the days following his death, tributes from fans and musicians painted a picture of someone valued for his character as much as his musical ability. In an industry often marked by ego and competition, Cary distinguished himself as a collaborator, a friend, and a steady presence who elevated the music simply through his participation.
