Jason Molina of Songs: Ohia, Magnolia Electric Co. Dead at 39

Some sad news to start the week: Jason Molina of Songs: Ohia and Magnolia Electric Co. has died, Chunklet reports. The songwriter, 39 (far right in the photo above), apparently died on Saturday (March 16) in Indianapolis of organ failure brought on by alcohol abuse.

While the news of Molina's passing may come as a shock, his struggles with substance abuse were no secret. In 2011, Chunklet writer Henry Owings, a longtime friend of Molina, took the extraordinary steps of reaching out to the public to draw attention to Molina's battle with his demons and ask for donations that would assist in his recovery.

One of the last updates on the Magnolia Electric Company website was a post from Molina addressing his health concerns and the public's response to his medical fund.

In the note, dated May 5, 2012, Molina wrote, "I have not given up because you, my friends have not given up on me. I do still need your support however that takes shape, good vibes are worth more than you might think."

Molina's most recent release was the 2012 solo effort 'Autumn Bird Songs.' Secretly Canadian, his longtime label home, has issued a statement about his death, calling him a "beloved friend" and the "cornerstone" of their indie imprint. The tribute concludes with a link to a memorial fund in Molina's honor.