Jeremy Tepper, Champion of Outlaw Country Music, Dies at 60

Jeremy Tepper, known for his fervent advocacy of outlaw country music through his role as program director for SiriusXM’s “Outlaw Country” channel, passed away on Friday. His wife, singer-songwriter Laura Cantrell, confirmed that he died of a heart attack in New York City. Tepper was 60 years old.

A ubiquitous figure in the realms of country, Americana, and rock, Tepper was often found amidst the crowds and backstage at various concerts and festivals. From Willie Nelson’s Luck Reunion in Spicewood, Texas, to the Americana Music Festival in Nashville, he was a familiar face. Just last week, he attended the opening of a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame exhibit honoring Mojo Nixon, a close friend and colleague at SiriusXM who had passed away in February. Meeting Tepper at these events was always marked by his trademark “yeah baby” greeting and a warm bear hug.

Born in 1963, Tepper graduated from NYU with a degree in journalism. In 2004, he joined SiriusXM to helm the “Outlaw Country” channel, which was launched by Steven Van Zandt. Alongside a cadre of colorful DJs including Mojo Nixon, Hillbilly Jim, Johnny Knoxville, Steve Earle, and Elizabeth Cook, Tepper created a haven for misfits and outsiders — both artists and listeners alike.