Bruce Tull, the longtime guitarist and pedal steel player for acclaimed alt-country band Scud Mountain Boys, has died at the age of 71.
The band confirmed Tull’s death, saying he passed away after a short illness.
In a heartfelt tribute, they described him as “the heart and soul” of the group, remembering not only his remarkable musicianship but also the warmth and kindness he brought to everyone around him.
Tull was one of the founding members of the Scud Mountain Boys, helping shape the band’s distinctive sound during the 1990s.
Alongside singer Joe Pernice, he blended acoustic guitar, pedal steel and understated melodies into a style that became influential within the alternative country movement.
Many fans credit Tull’s expressive playing as one of the defining elements of the band’s music.
The group’s earliest recordings were made around Tull’s own kitchen table before they gained a devoted following through albums that earned critical acclaim for their intimate songwriting and stripped-back arrangements. His musical touch brought depth and emotion to songs that continue to resonate with listeners decades later.
Following news of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians, friends and fans across social media.
Joe Pernice remembered Tull as a cherished bandmate and close friend, while others described him as a gifted guitarist whose quiet brilliance left a lasting impression on everyone who heard him perform.
Although Bruce Tull largely stayed out of the spotlight, his influence on the alt-country genre remains undeniable. Through his work with the Scud Mountain Boys, he helped create a catalog of music that continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.
Bruce Tull is remembered not only for his extraordinary talent but also for the generosity, humility and passion for music that defined both his career and his life.