A rock star who played for Oasis and was dubbed the “new Beatles” passed away at the age of 40.
Justin Baren, the 40-year-old former teen rock star, passed away, his father Martin Baren announced. The Redwalls’ founding member in Chicago, Baren, passed away peacefully on November 28.
In 2005, The Redwalls played gigs for Oasis in the UK and the US. At an event held at the now-defunct City of Manchester Stadium, the band played for Oasis.
The band announced the news via social media by a heartbreaking tribute to Justin. We share the passing of our friend, brother, and bandmate, Justin Baren, with heavy hearts.
“The Redwalls’ Justin was a significant member. He influenced who we were through his energy, intuition, and raw musicality. As a group of children attempting to create something meaningful together, not just as a band.
“Julie’s passing has not been determined informally. His memory will be greatly appreciated, and he will be greatly missed.
We appreciate the years, the music, and the memories we shared.
One fan wrote, “So sad, but tributes have been left for Justin on a memorial site. too young . I was a resident of Chicago when I first met the Redwalls in a NYC dive bar in 2005, and we later had drinks with the band. Condolences to the members of the family.
Another praised Justin’s “lucky” reunion with him at a Redwalls concert years ago. Every performance was a truly unique experience thanks to his talent, kindness, and charisma. He will be greatly missed. While a third person said, “I can’t believe Justin has left.” Although he may have made some incredible music with Logan and The Redwalls, that will endure forever. At this heartbreaking time, Logan and Justin’s friends and family are in mourning.
On December 9 at 12 p.m., the singer and bass player’s funeral will be held at Zion Gardens Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois.
Justin fell in love with music in Deerfield, Illinois, where he was raised. The Beatles, The Kinks, and The Rolling Stones were his particular influences, and Justin and his brother Logan, age 43, made the decision to form a band while attending Deerfield High School. The Pages, a band that Justin, Logan, and their pals Andrew Langer and Jordan Kozer played guitar and drums, respectively, was the name of the first band that was formed in 2001.
By 2003, the band had begun playing in Chicagoan venues and had just released their debut album, Universal Blues. Additionally, they forged a deal with American label Capitol Records, which also represented The Beatles.
They released their first album, De Nova, with a major label in 2005, and then released their second single, Thank You, on Conan O’Brien’s show later that year.
Justin founded The Redwalls, a rock band based in Chicago, with a retro sound and soaring harmonies, according to Justin’s obituary. He consistently delivered unmistakable energy and personality to every performance as a singer, songwriter, and bass guitarist. His presence onstage and his deep love of music made people feel special.
The Redwalls quickly developed from a British-inspired cover band to an internationally renowned touring band thanks to the formation of their brother Logan while they were still in high school.
Music remained a central theme throughout Justin’s life. He had recently been collaborating with others on the release of previously unreleased recordings, and he continued to write, record, and collaborate. His family, his bandmates, and the countless fans whose lives he touched will be remembered for his passion, creativity, and generous spirit.
Martin Baren and Ann Kapp, his loving parents, left Justin behind. loving Logan Baren, brother. Judy (Jerry) Rothfeld and Debbie (Michael Green) Baren, two devoted aunts. Courtney Mcallister and Bari Spurgeon, two older cousins.
