Some very sad news to report: Over the weekend, Sparklehorse mastermind Mark Linkous committed suicide. He was 47 years old.

Linkous, a musician for over 25 years, was best known as the main songwriter for Dancing Hoods and, later, Sparklehorse. Aside from creating numerous Dancing Hoods and Sparklehorse albums, Linkous produced several albums (including albums by A Camp and Daniel Johnston) and also produced and organized the well-regarded Daniel Johnston tribute album while also contributing a song with The Flaming Lips to the compilation. A lover of all things music, he also worked with a wide rage of artists including Danger Mouse, PJ Harvey, and John Cale over the course of his career.

He is survived by many loving friends and family members, who contributed the following post to his website: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that our dear friend and family member, Mark Linkous, took his own life today. We are thankful for his time with us and will hold him forever in our hearts. May his journey be peaceful, happy and free. There's a heaven and there's a star for you.”

For those unfamiliar with Sparklehorse, listen to some of their excellent songs here.