ESCANABA, Mich. Kevin Chown, the bassist who played with Artension, Tarja, and SteelHeart, has died at 56 after a battle with cancer.
According to Anderson Funeral Homes, Chown passed away at his home on July 6, 2026. Funeral services are scheduled for July 18 in Escanaba, with a full obituary expected in the coming days.
Tributes From Bandmates
Tarja Turunen, who worked alongside Chown for years, shared an emotional tribute online, saying her heart was broken and calling him a friend she would never forget.
Chown’s bandmates in SteelHeart, where he had played bass for the last seven years, also honored him, describing the dedication and passion he brought to every performance and every mile spent on the road.
Throughout his long career, Chown lent his talent to a wide range of acts, including Magnitude 9, Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats, and Edwin Dare, building a reputation as one of the most versatile bassists in the rock and metal scene.
A Community Mourns
Chown’s sister, Amy Chown, confirmed the news on social media, writing that although the family knew the day was coming, it still arrived far too soon. She asked for prayers and support for herself and Kevin’s wife, Julie, as they process the loss.
Friends in his hometown of Escanaba also remembered him warmly. One local author described Chown as one of the most unique and generous people she had ever known, recalling how he once helped calm her nerves before a public event by reminding her that people were there because they loved her work.
Others in the community echoed similar sentiments on the funeral home’s tribute wall, with one person calling him a great soul whose loss would be felt far beyond Escanaba, and another recalling fond memories of listening to his radio programs over the years.
Chown is survived by his wife, Julie, and other close family members. A memorial tree has already been planted in his honor, and members of the public have been invited to share their own memories and condolences through the funeral home’s online tribute page.
The music world continues to mourn the loss of a musician whose steady, soulful playing left a lasting mark across genres and generations of fans.
