Kate McGarrigle, the world-renowned folk singer and mother of Rufus and Martha Wainwright, died Monday following a long bout with cancer. She was 63-years-old.
McGarrigle, who was born in Saint-Sauveur-des-Monts, Quebec in 1946, is perhaps most known for her collaboration with sister Anna in the folk group the McGarrigle Sisters. Their discography included such hits as “The Work Song”, “Cool River”, and “Lying Song”, as well a fairly popular cover of Wade Hemsworth’s “The Log Driver’s Waltz”. Several of their songs would go on to be covered by the likes of Emmylou Harris, Judy Collins, Billy Bragg, and Linda Ronstadt.
According to the Canadian Press, McGarrigle had been battling cancer since the summer of 2006. She died surrounded by her sisters, Jane and Anna, and her children. Rufus Wainwright canceled his upcoming tour to be by his mother’s side.
