Will Cullen Hart, a cherished figure in the indie music scene and a key member of the bands Olivia Tremor Control and Circulatory System, has passed away at the age of 53. The news of his death was confirmed by Robert Schneider of Apples in Stereo, who took to social media to pay tribute to his late friend and collaborator.
Hart’s passing occurred on November 29, coinciding with the release of two new singles from Olivia Tremor Control, titled “Garden Of Light” and “The Same Place.” This marked the band’s first new music in over a decade, adding a bittersweet note to the occasion.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Schneider expressed his sorrow, stating, “I am deeply heartbroken on this day of celebration of a new Olivia Tremor Control release, to announce that my dear friend and Elephant 6 Recording Co. co-founder, W. Cullen Hart (Will to his friends), passed away this morning of natural causes, suddenly, peacefully, and in a very happy mood around the release of the two new OTC songs.” He went on to describe Hart as a “genius experimental and psychedelic pop musician” and a prolific visual artist, known for his constant creativity.
Born on June 14, 1971, in Athens, Georgia, Hart spent his formative years in Rustin, Louisiana. It was here that he formed lasting friendships with fellow musicians Schneider, Bill Doss, and Jeff Mangum. In 1993, Hart and Doss established Olivia Tremor Control, which became a cornerstone of the Elephant 6 music collective.
The band made waves in the music industry with their distinctive sound, characterized by experimental pop and psychedelic influences. They released two critically acclaimed albums: “Dusk at Cubist Castle” in 1996 and “Black Foliage” in 1999. Although the group disbanded in 2000, they reunited in 2009 after Hart’s health struggles due to multiple sclerosis, a condition he battled for nearly two decades.
Following the death of bandmate Bill Doss in 2012, the remaining members of Olivia Tremor Control chose to continue making music. In 2023, they confirmed that they were working on new material, a testament to their enduring legacy and Hart’s unwavering passion for music.
In addition to his work with Olivia Tremor Control, Hart was also a founding member of Circulatory System, a psychedelic rock band he formed in 2000. The group included musicians such as Derek Almstead, Suzanne Allison, Peter Erchick, John Fernandes, Charlie Johnston, and Heather McIntosh. Circulatory System released several albums, including the 2014 project “Mosaics Within Mosaics,” further showcasing Hart’s versatility as an artist.
The Elephant 6 Recording Company, which Hart co-founded, emerged as a significant force in the indie music scene during the 1980s. The collective, which originated in Ruston, Louisiana, expanded its reach to Athens, Georgia, and became known for its eclectic roster of artists and innovative approach to music production.
Hart’s contributions to music extended beyond performance. He was known for his experimental techniques, often utilizing four-track recorders and tape loops to create sound collages. His artistic vision also encompassed visual art, as he was an avid sketch artist and collage maker, often creating art on any available surface.
Throughout his career, Hart’s influence resonated within the indie music community, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike. His innovative spirit and dedication to his craft will be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him and by the many who appreciated his music.
As the music world mourns the loss of Will Cullen Hart, his legacy as a pioneering artist and beloved friend will undoubtedly live on through the music he created and the lives he touched.
