Steve Earle to record covers album of songs by his late son, Justin Townes Earle

Album is planned for release to coincide with what would have been Justin’s 39th birthday

Justin Townes Earle performs at the BMI Country Awards in 2012 (John Russell/Getty Images for BMI)

Steve Earle has announced that he will release a new album featuring covers of songs by his son, the late musician Justin Townes Earle, with his band the Dukes.

In a press statement, it was revealed that Earle plans to record the album sometime in the next month.

The record will be released in January 2021, to coincide with what would have been Justin’s 39th birthday.

Advances and royalties from the sales of the album will be placed in a trust fund for Justin’s daughter, Etta St James.

The tracklist and title are yet to be announced.

Steve Earle will record the songs by his late son

Justin died aged 38 on 20 August from a “probable drug overdose”, according to police.

News of his death was announced via an official statement, which read:“It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of our son, husband, father and friend Justin.

“So many of you have relied on his music and lyrics over the years and we hope that his music will continue to guide you on your journeys.”

Fellow artists, including Margo Price, Billy Bragg and Frank Turner, paid tribute to Justin on social media.

Justin’s last album, The Saint of Lost Causes, was released in 2019.