About Jim Ellison
Lived 1964 – 1996 (aged 32). Jim Ellison was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist.
James Walter Ellison (April 18, 1964–June 20, 1996) was the frontman for the band Material Issue. He tirelessly promoted his band, booked tours, and secured a major-label deal in 1990. Ellison —along with bassist Ted Ansani and drummer Mike Zelenko—would lead the renaissance of power pop in the early 1990s.
Personal life and legacy Ellison grew up in Illinois and attended Glenbard North High School.
He died on June 20, 1996, from suicide. Gord Downie, lead singer of The Tragically Hip, wrote the song "Escape Is at Hand for the Travelin' Man" about his relationship with Ellison, and about Downie's grief after Ellison's death. The song was recorded by The Tragically Hip.
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Important facts
People in Jim Ellison's life
Named in this biography and alive at the same time
Related people
Same field, nearest in time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Jim Ellison's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Jim Ellison?
American musician (1964-1996)
When was Jim Ellison born?
Jim Ellison was born on 18 April 1964.
When did Jim Ellison die?
Jim Ellison died on 20 June 1996.
What was Jim Ellison's occupation?
Jim Ellison was a singer-songwriter and guitarist.
What nationality was Jim Ellison?
Jim Ellison was American.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Jim Ellison. https://biography.guide/jim-ellison-singer-songwriter/
MLA: "Jim Ellison." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/jim-ellison-singer-songwriter/.
Chicago: "Jim Ellison." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/jim-ellison-singer-songwriter/.
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