Justin Cary, Sixpence None the Richer Bassist, Dies at 50

Justin Cary, the talented bassist who anchored the sound of Sixpence None the Richer for nearly three decades, has died at the age of 50. His passing comes just days after he suffered a stroke.

The band’s frontwoman, Leigh Nash, confirmed the news on Thursday, sharing a poignant tribute to her longtime bandmate. “‘We sure had a great time’ is an understatement,” Nash wrote on social media. “Thank you, Justin. We love you forever. Please keep his dear wife Linda close to your hearts. She is our family. There’s never been anybody like Justin.”

In a heartfelt reflection shared via Instagram Stories, Nash highlighted Cary’s character and his musical contributions. “Justin Cary was kind, talented, and one of the funniest people I’ve ever met,” she noted. “Whenever he had a story, I would stop to listen. I had to be sure to catch the end of ‘Kiss Me’ every night because he did this funky bass lick that tickled my brain so good.”

Nash also recalled a personal anecdote from their time on the road, illustrating the bond they shared. “One time I broke the sink in my hotel room in Chile and he had to come help me at 1 a.m. I feel incredibly lucky to have known him and to have learned the touring ropes from someone so extraordinary. I was looking forward to being his friend for a long time.”

Cary joined Sixpence None the Richer in 1997, stepping in to replace former bassist J.J. Plasencio. His arrival preceded the band’s massive commercial breakthrough with their self-titled album, which featured the iconic hit “Kiss Me.” The track became a global phenomenon, peaking at Number Two on the Billboard Hot 100. The band also saw significant success with their cover of the La’s “There She Goes” in 1999.

Prior to his death, a GoFundMe page was established by Nash to support Cary and his wife, Linda, during his medical crisis. The page noted that Cary had been in the ICU following two surgeries. “Justin passed peacefully this morning and Linda was next to him,” the fundraiser stated on Thursday. “Please continue to pray and give strength during this very difficult time.”

Reflecting on his legacy, Nash previously praised his professionalism and wit. “Our brother of 30 years (and bassist), Justin had a stroke Thursday night,” she wrote earlier in the week. “We love our brother so so much. Words don’t cover it. I know so many out there love him too. Saw his brilliance, second to NONE professionalism, class, humor (oh my lord the humor) wit, tough as an old boot as they say.”