NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Todd Snider, a singer-songwriter celebrated for his uniquely freewheeling tunes and astute cosmic-stoner songwriting, has passed away at the age of 59. His record label announced his death in a statement shared on social media, revealing that he died on Friday.

The statement expressed profound grief, noting, “Where do we find the words for the one who always had the right words, who knew how to distill everything down to its essence with words and song while delivering the most devastating, hilarious, and impactful turn of phrases?” It further lauded Snider for his ability to create lyrics that resonated like "an old friend or a favorite blanket," highlighting his talent for finding humor amidst life’s challenges.

Snider's health had worsened following a pneumonia diagnosis at a hospital in Hendersonville, Tennessee. His family and friends mentioned that his condition had become complicated, prompting his transfer to another facility. This diagnosis occurred shortly after he canceled a tour due to a violent assault he experienced in the Salt Lake City area, as stated by his management team on November 3.

In a troubling turn of events, Snider himself was arrested by Salt Lake City police when he initially refused to leave the hospital after his assault; he later returned to the hospital and threatened hospital staff, according to a report by the Salt Lake Tribune.

The canceled tour was intended to promote his most recent album, “High, Lonesome and Then Some,” released in October. Over his three-decade career, Snider elegantly blended elements of folk, rock, and country music. Recent reviews from The Associated Press characterized him as a “singer-songwriter with the persona of a fried folkie” and described him as a “stoner troubadour and cosmic comic.”

Snider drew inspiration from legendary artists like Kris Kristofferson, Guy Clark, and John Prine, the latter of whom was influential in his career. His songwriting talents earned him recognition beyond his own performances, with various artists such as Jerry Jeff Walker, Billy Joe Shaver, and Tom Jones covering his songs. Moreover, he co-wrote a song with Loretta Lynn that was featured on her 2016 album, “Full Circle.”

His record label's Saturday statement reflected on his legacy, praising him for conveying "tenderness and sensitivity" through his music and for teaching many to perceive the world from different perspectives. Snider, who was known for his diligence in writing, aspired to take his place among the songwriting titans whose records adorned his shelves.

During the early 2000s, Snider produced some of his most acclaimed work for John Prine’s Oh Boy Records, culminating in albums such as “New Connection,” “Near Truths and Hotel Rooms,” and "East Nashville Skyline," the latter being widely regarded as his magnum opus. Popular songs from these albums include “I Can’t Complain,” “Beer Run,” and "Alright Guy."

Born and raised in Oregon, Snider honed his musical talents in San Marcos, Texas, before moving to Nashville. He became affectionately referred to as the unofficial “mayor of East Nashville,” a title he inherited from a friend immortalized in his song “Train Song.” In 2021, Snider mentioned struggles following a tornado that damaged his home in the neighborhood renowned for its vibrant art scene.

Snider's career began to flourish when Jimmy Buffett recognized his talent, signing him to his Margaritaville label, which released his debut albums, “Songs for the Daily Planet” in 1994 and “Step Right Up” in 1996. The fond memories of his artistry and the impact of his songs will undoubtedly remain in the hearts of his fans.