Mojo Nixon, the irreverent artist celebrated for comedic hits like “Elvis Is Everywhere” and “Don Henley Must Die,” has tragically passed away following a cardiac event on the Outlaw Country Cruise. Born Neill Kirby McMillan Jr. in 1957, the North Carolina native left an indelible mark on the music scene with his unapologetically audacious approach.
Nixon, known for his collaboration with Skid Roper and solo ventures, gained notoriety for the single “Elvis Is Everywhere,” reaching chart success. His solo release, “Don Henley Must Die,” became an alternative radio hit and even drew the attention of the real Don Henley, who joined Nixon on stage to perform the song with gusto.
The family shared a poignant statement, saying, “Mojo Nixon was full-tilt, wide-open rock hard, root hog, corner on two wheels + on fire… Passing after a blazing show, a raging night, closing the bar, taking no prisoners + a good breakfast with bandmates and friends. A cardiac event on the Outlaw Country Cruise is about right… & that’s just how he did it.”
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Throughout his career, Nixon collaborated with Jello Biafra on the roots rock record Prairie Home Invasion, and his documentary, The Mojo Manifesto, premiered at SXSW in 2022. Beyond music, he took on the role of Toad in the 1993 film Super Mario Bros.
At 66, Mojo Nixon has left an enduring legacy, encapsulating a life lived with unabashed fervor. The family’s concluding words, “Mojo has left the building. Since Elvis is everywhere, we know he was waiting for him in the alley out back. Heaven help us all,” resonate with the spirit of an artist who lived life on his own terms.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane, and check out Elvis is Everywhere below.
What’s your favorite Mojo Nixon memory or song that encapsulates his legendary humor and musical prowess?
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