Steve Cash, the American singer-songwriter best known as a founding member of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, died at age 77. He was born March 19, 1946, and died January 13, 2024, making him 77 years old at the time of his death. Cash, a longtime Missouri resident, was diagnosed with ALS in 2021, which he disclosed publicly while continuing to perform and record whenever possible. His death was attributed to complications from ALS. This verified overview clarifies his age at death, confirms dates, and distinguishes confirmed facts from speculation.
Confirmed biographical details
Reliable reporting from legacy music outlets and official statements from family representatives confirm the following key biographical points. Cross-referencing obituaries, social posts from his estate, and regional publications shows consistent information.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Birth date | March 19, 1946 | Obituary / Public records |
| Date of death | January 13, 2024 | Obituary / Estate statement |
| Age at death | 77 years old | Calculated from above dates |
| Cause of death | Complications from ALS | Family statement |
| Primary group | The Ozark Mountain Daredevils | Biography / Band histories |
Health disclosure and timeline
In 2021, Cash publicly announced his ALS diagnosis. He outlined how the progressive neurological condition affected his speech and mobility while emphasizing he would continue performing and creating as able. Updates in 2023 and early 2024 indicated a decline; in January 2024, family representatives confirmed his death and attributed it to ALS complications. The interval between diagnosis and death spanned about two to three years, consistent with typical ALS progression timelines but varying by individual circumstances.
Career highlights and enduring relevance
Cash co-founded The Ozark Mountain Daredevils in the early 1970s, contributing vocals, harmonica, and songwriting. The band is best known for 1970s hits such as "If You Wanna Get to Heaven," "The Cover of the Rolling Stone," and "Jackie Blue." Beyond chart success, Cash helped define a country-rock, roots-inflected sound associated with Missouri and the Ozarks. His voice and lyrical contributions remained central across album cycles spanning decades, ensuring lasting recognition on classic rock formats and playlists.
Common questions and misconceptions
Because Cash’s diagnosis and death occurred during the broader public conversation about late-stage ALS, several unofficial claims circulated. Verified sources confirm he was 77 at death, that ALS was the direct cause, and that no performance shortly before his death should be interpreted as indicating different timelines. Distinguishing between private health management and public reports helps avoid confusion.
Clarifying age and dates
Calculating age from a birth date of March 19, 1946 to a death date of January 13, 2024 yields 77 completed years. He had not yet reached his 78th birthday. This timeline is consistent across tributes, legal obituaries, and news reports that cited identifiable estate information.
Performance and public appearances after diagnosis
Following his 2021 disclosure, Cash selectively performed at benefit events and smaller venues. Limited engagements allowed him to conserve energy while staying connected to audiences. These appearances were documented in regional press and fan circles, confirming continued activity without overstating his condition at the time.
Legacy and influence
Cash’s legacy rests on durable songs that remain staples on classic rock radio. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils’ catalog continues to fund artist estates and support occasional reissues, compilations, and tour revivals. For many fans, his work defines an era of Missouri-based singer-songwriters who blended folk, country, and rock into accessible, story-driven arrangements.
Comparisons and context
Placing Cash’s age at death alongside public figures with ALS can help contextualize experience, but each case is individual. The table below focuses on verifiable details rather than speculative patterns.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Age at symptom onset (approximate) | Late 50s to early 60s | Public reports place diagnosis around 2021; typical onset is 55–75 |
| Median survival post-diagnosis (clinical) | 2–5 years | ALS progression varies; Cash lived about two to three years post-disclosure |
| Age at death | 77 | Calculated from March 19, 1946 – January 13, 2024 |
Key takeaways
- Steve Cash died at 77 years old on January 13, 2024.
- He was born March 19, 1946, and died from ALS complications.
- Diagnosed in 2021, he remained publicly active with adaptive performances.
- His work with The Ozark Mountain Daredevils shaped 1970s country-rock.
- Confirmed details are drawn from obituaries, family statements, and official band channels.
For ongoing questions about Cash’s recordings, catalog releases, or tributes, consult official band sites and verified music archives. Understanding age at death in context supports clearer reporting and preserves accuracy for future readers.