Jay was at the centre of the Yankee Hotel Foxtrot storm and subsequently was ousted from the band before that album was released. He played on the previous records and was the main instrumental foil to Jeff Tweedy.

Recently he sued for unpaid royalties from the film Only Trying To Break Your Heart’ which baffled the rest of the band. Unknown to them was the news that Bennett was about to undergo a hip replacement and needed funds for the operation as he had no medical insurance.

Jeff Tweedy on the passing of Bennett:

“We are all deeply saddened by this tragedy. We will miss Jay as we remember him — as a truly unique and gifted human being and one who made welcome and significant contributions to the band’s songs and evolution. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends in this very difficult time.”